Hi everyone, I’m planning my first-ever trip to the Galapagos Islands and I’m so excited! I’ve been researching, but there are so many tour options—day tours, multi-day cruises, private charters—it’s overwhelming. I want to see as much wildlife as possible and visit the iconic spots without feeling rushed. Does anyone have tips on what’s worth prioritizing? Any tour operators you’d recommend?

I totally get the overwhelm; I felt the same way when I planned my Galapagos trip last year! After a ton of research, I ended up choosing the Galapagos Catamaran for a 5-day cruise, and it was absolutely worth it. The itinerary covered a mix of islands, with time for hiking, snorkeling, and just soaking in the incredible scenery. One thing I loved was the small group size on the catamaran. It made the trip feel more intimate, and we got plenty of time with the guide, who was a certified naturalist. They pointed out everything from tiny finches to marine iguanas basking on the rocks. Plus, the snorkeling sessions were unforgettable—I swam alongside sea turtles and even spotted a hammerhead shark!
If you’re a wildlife lover, the flexibility and expert guidance on a cruise really make the experience. I’d recommend booking early, though, because spots fill up fast. Let me know if you need more details!