Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands offer you the chance to explore a rich culture and history, and encounter the spectacular wildlife that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.
Our Latin America Travel Specialist, Kerry Cook, has recently returned from her three-week September 2025 trip to the two destinations, and is here to answer all your burning questions.
What is your standout memory?
“It was all brilliant, but snorkelling above hammerhead sharks off Genovesa Island is it. A carpet of golden rays swam beneath us in perfect formation, which I’ll never forget. For me, it was an achievement simply because the conditions were challenging – I’m so pleased I persevered!”
How do I get to the Galapagos Islands?
“The Galapagos archipelago sits nearly 1,000 kilometres off the coast of mainland Ecuador. To get there, you'll need to take a flight from Quito, which involves a touchdown of approximately one hour in Guayaquil (to collect more passengers), before continuing onto San Cristobal or Baltra. So, the total journey time from Quito to the Galapagos is around three hours and 30 minutes.”
Our Best of Ecuador & Galapagos Wildlife sample itinerary includes some extra time spent in Quito so you can explore the culture, plus stops in the Ecuadorian Amazon before heading on to the Galapagos Islands.
From exploring the UNESCO World Heritage city sights, to canoeing along the iconic river and searching for Galapagos sea lions and blue-footed boobies, you're immersed in some of the world's most beautiful regions."
How should I travel between the islands?
“To visit the outer islands, like Genovesa or Española, it’s best to do a cruise.
This requires longer navigation, and you’ll have a little more time to fully experience the unique wildlife in these areas.
Alternatively, if you prefer a land-based trip, you can travel using the public water taxis and speedboats, which is a fun (and fast!) way to get between the larger islands of San Cristobal, Santa Cruz and Isabela. There are some small, inter-island flights, too.”
When is the best time to visit?
“From December to May, the Galapagos Islands’ weather is warm and sunny, with occasional showers and warm water for snorkelling. It’s especially hot between February and March.
“I visited in September, a time known for higher winds and cooler temperatures. While the sea was quite cool for water-based activities (wetsuits can be provided), it was mostly sunny and warm with the odd overnight shower – we saw plenty of fish, turtles, rays and sharks when snorkelling! We also spotted lots of fluffy, young blue-footed boobies, as well as many giant tortoises in the Santa Cruz Highlands.
“Ecuador’s mainland is diverse in its geography. It’s split into three by the Andes, with Quito sitting long and skinny in the middle of a big ‘bowl’. The weather here is changeable, but June to September is good for exploring the Andes as it’s the dry season. The Amazon is a year-round destination, but it’s rainier from December to April.”
Where did you visit during your trip?
“My route was Quito–Cloud Forests–Otavalo–Galapagos Islands–Cotopaxi. The cruise itinerary took me to San Cristobal, Santa Fe, Santa Cruz, Genovesa, Chinese Hat and Rabida islands.”
PICTURED: Kerry’s route in the Galapagos (Image Credit: Oniric Cruises)
What was your favourite:
Island to explore?
“On Genovesa, we saw the red-footed boobies, and with huge frigatebirds wheeling overhead, it was a bit like being in Jurassic Park. We were the only visitors to the island at that time, which was pretty special!
Santa Cruz Island is a bit of a contrast to the other islands we visited, and the highlands are completely different to the bustling town of Puerto Ayora. As you drive north, the scenery changes, and it becomes very green and lush, with giant tortoises lurking in the vegetation. The El Chato reserve is a lovely spot to see these gentle creatures enjoying the prickly pear cactus fruits!”
Excursion?
“I love volcanoes, so was keen to visit Quilotoa over on the mainland. The hike was quite challenging due to the altitude and steep, sandy path. However, the reward was worth the effort since it’s a volcanic lagoon with bright turquoise water surrounded by beautiful wildflowers and purple lupins. We hiked down to the water level, where you can hire kayaks or relax and take in the view; it was very peaceful.
“There are other options for hiking in this area, like the complete loop around the lagoon (around five or six hours, and undulating). Over in Cotopaxi, you can hike to the refuge or the lower glacier of the volcano, which are at a higher altitude – 4,864 metres and 5,100 metres respectively. You can, though, admire the majestic Cotopaxi from the relaxing, bird-filled trails along the lagoon inside the national park. I also enjoyed the night walks at Maquipucuna, where we saw lots of phosphorescent mushrooms and firefly larvae!”
Looking to only experience Ecuador? Our Ecuador Explorer sample itinerary includes time in Cotopaxi National Park. Learn about the history of this spectacular volcano’s major eruptions, visit Lake Limpiopungo and hike to J. Ribas refuge (4,800m) for striking views of the volcano.
Accommodation?
“I loved Maquipucuna Lodge – its location in the forest next to the river was spectacular and peaceful, and you feel surrounded by nature. The meals here were simple, home-cooked and hearty foods with local ingredients. I enjoyed Chilcabamba Lodge for similar reasons: to be immersed in nature and especially loved the wood-burner in my cosy room and views of Cotopaxi from my patio doors. The stars at night were incredible.”
What wildlife did you see?
“Across the Galapagos, I saw hammerhead sharks, red-footed boobies, blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, frigatebirds, hundreds of sea lions, Galapagos hawk, land iguanas, humpback whale, giant Galapagos tortoise, marine iguanas, razor snake and Galapagos penguin.
“On the mainland, I spotted Andean condors, a kinkajou, about 60 different bird species and around 15 different types of hummingbirds in the cloud forest, not to mention an interesting and beautiful array of moths.”
Do you have any restaurants or bars to recommend?
“In Quito – Claroscuro is an excellent option. I did a cooking class here, but it’s also a gastro bar. They use incredibly fresh ingredients and serve up lovely seafood and cocktails.
“You also have Qiru Esencial in Quito – an experimental Ecuadorian restaurant.
“On Santa Cruz in the Galapagos, Al Mar has, as the name suggests (‘El Mar’ = ‘The Sea’ in English), amazing seafood. They also have delicious cocktails!”
What’s life like on the islands?
“Life on the islands feels relaxed; many locals work in the fishing or tourism industries. Places like Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz are bustling, and it’s odd to see the sea lions lounging on the benches overlooking the ocean, or marine iguanas huddled together on the pavement!
“Everywhere, the wildlife is respected. Everyone keeps a safe distance, and there are strict laws to protect the animals.
“Life on the mainland is different, depending on where you visit. The Andean towns in the highlands feel traditionally ‘South American’, and a lot of the indigenous communities here still have a deep connection to Pachamama – mother nature. Each volcano, for example, has its own name and personality, and (thankfully rare) rumblings and eruptions are often attributed to arguments or disagreements between them. At the market in Quito, the capital city, many young mothers still take their babies and children to see traditional healers to clear negative energies.”
Discover what life is like in this spectacular corner of the world on our Ecuador & Galapagos in Style sample itinerary. You'll head out into the cloud forest for a stay at Masphi Lodge, one of the country's most famous properties, and explore a colourful underwater world accompanied by expert naturalist guides in the Galapagos.
How was your on-board cruise experience?
“Fantastic! The Galapagos Tribute has a capacity for just 16 passengers, with 13 crew and two naturalist guides onboard who are super knowledgeable. Our guide was also a diving guide and passionate about the underwater life – he knew exactly where to take us to see the hammerhead sharks and the Galapagos penguin. On the islands, he could imitate the bird calls perfectly, and we saw so much.
Each evening, our guide explained what we had seen that day and the expectation for the next day’s outing. For example, we had the option to join him for wildlife-specific, informal ‘lectures’ about the birdlife on the Galapagos.
“The Tribute is newly refurbished and a comfortable place to stay between exploring the islands. The food was incredible – lots of local flavours and ingredients. On one of the days, we had a barbecue lunch on the sundeck with some lovely fresh seafood; some of our evening meals were even like works of art in their presentation! Generally, though, an average day would be: have breakfast before an excursion for a couple of hours, then back to the ship for lunch before heading out again in the afternoon and returning for dinner.
“You often have pockets of free time, and, if the ship is navigating, can spend this in the comfortable lounge, on the sundeck or simply snoozing in your cabin. The crew was excellent, and most had worked for Oniric for many years, so they were very experienced, kind and took great care of us. After each excursion, getting back on board, we were always greeted with canapes and drinks (it was so nice to be welcomed back on board with a hot chocolate after being out snorkelling)!”
What three tips do you have for travellers wanting to visit here?
“Don’t forget everything that Ecuador has to offer! It’s home to cloud forest, the Amazon rainforest, colourful market towns and the entire country is spined by volcanoes, each with its own indigenous names and personalities, according to locals. You could spend weeks on the mainland alone.
“Bring a range of clothing as you’ll likely encounter all weathers. Include walking boots, a buff (the equatorial sun is intense, so it’s handy for your nose and mouth), binoculars and a camera.
“If you do a cruise in the Galapagos and have the time, I recommend spending a few days on one of the bigger islands to experience local life and explore something a little different before heading to the mainland. You can take boat trips to the smaller neighbouring islands.”
What type of traveller would you say Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are suited for?
“If you’re someone who doesn’t wish to travel long distances or take numerous internal flights, this experience will be perfect for you. Ecuador is a compact and diverse country where everything is relatively close and truly encompasses much of what South America is famous for.
“It’s also great for nature enthusiasts. Birders will find an array of species in the cloud forests and volcanic national parks, like the huge Andean condors. The Amazon is, of course, a key destination and can be explored either from a comfortable jungle lodge or a river cruise.
“Ecuador has a rich heritage with many indigenous communities. So, it would also appeal to travellers interested in the fascinating history of Latin America and its peoples.
“If you like the outdoors, it’s an adventure playground with plenty of opportunities for hiking, snorkelling and kayaking (as well as more adrenaline-pumping activities). That doesn’t mean you have to be incredibly fit or active, though, since there are activities to suit everyone.”
In one word, how would you describe your experience?
“Unforgettable.”
Your Next Adventure Awaits in Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands
Ready to follow in Kerry’s footsteps? Give her or one of our other Latin America Travel Specialists a call to craft your tailor-made adventure through Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands—where every day brings new adventures, wildlife encounters and cultural treasures.
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