Can I combine a Galapagos cruise with days on an island?

How to Combine a Galapagos Cruise with Island Stays

If you’re torn between a Galapagos cruise and a stay in a hotel in one of the islands, here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose just one. In fact, combining both gives you the best of both worlds—an enriching cruise to reach remote islands, followed by time to relax or explore at your own pace from a charming hotel on land.

The mix of a cruise with days on an island is the perfect combo to experience the islands fully.

Why Combine Cruise and Land?

Cruises let you access the Galapagos’ more isolated sites—places like Fernandina, Española or Genovesa that are only reachable by boat. You’ll follow a set itinerary, guided by expert naturalists, and enjoy two excursions per day, all fully planned. It’s efficient, immersive, and you’ll see a huge variety of landscapes and wildlife in a short time.

Staying on land, meanwhile, brings flexibility. Whether you’re snorkelling from the beach at Puerto Ayora, biking through the highlands of Isabela, or simply soaking up the atmosphere in a small café, you’ll see a different, more human side of Galapagos life. It also gives you space to slow down, enjoy local culture, and even revisit favourite spots at your own pace.

The beautiful coast of Isabela in the Galapagos

How to Structure Your Trip

There are a few ways to plan this kind of hybrid itinerary. One popular option is to start with a cruise, then unwind with a few days in a hotel. After the structured pace of life onboard, it’s lovely to have time to reflect and explore on your own terms. Alternatively, you could start on land and then finish with a cruise—building up the excitement and ending with a bang.

Cruises run from 4 to 8 days, and land stays are flexible. I usually recommend 2 to 4 nights on either Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, or Isabela, depending on your interests. The former two are more developed with a wider choice of amenities and excursions. They are also the only two with direct flights to Ecuador’s mainland. Isabela is quieter, wilder, and ideal for nature lovers.

Logistics Made Simple

Transfers between the islands are straightforward, whether by public speedboat, internal flight, or private charter. Most cruises start and finish in Baltra or San Cristóbal, so it’s easy to continue your journey from there. I help arrange all connections and hand-pick accommodation that suits your style and budget, from boutique beachfront hotels to peaceful eco-lodges tucked in the highlands.

Let’s Tailor It Together

Combining a Galapagos cruise with an island stay is one of the best ways to make your trip richer, more balanced, and truly memorable. I’ve helped many clients build custom itineraries like this—and having travelled this way myself, I can help you avoid the pitfalls and make the most of every moment.

Ready to start planning? Browse our selection of hotel, boats and related guides below, and when you are ready, get in touch and we will help you craft the perfect Galapagos adventure.

This guide was created by Val, specialist in tailor-made Ecuador and Galapagos adventures.

Quito

Capital of the country and one of the continent's most beautifully preserved colonial cities.

Cotopaxi volcano

One of the world's most photogenic volcanoes! Visit the beautiful and eponymous park.

Otavalo

Charming town, full of indigenous culture and a famous market.

Mindo cloud forest

A birdwatcher paradise!

Coca

The gateway to the an immersive experience into Ecuador's pristine Amazon rainforest.

Banos

Charming town with a lovely square, wonderful nature around and capital of adrenaline sports (if you are so inclined).

Riobamba

A lovely town on the Avenue of volcanoes. Enjoy a 'hornado' (pig roast) al mercado La Merced.
The town is also the getaway for tours to Chimborazo volcano.

Cuenca

Beautiful Cuenca deserves a special mentions as it is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the continent. The lovely square is gorgeous and the whole city is welcoming and friendly. Go and visit the outdoor flower market for an injection of colour!

Guayaquil

Often overlooked, Guayaquil is mainly an arrival or departure point. However, the malecon is worth having a walk on, and La Penas is the oldest and most pleasant part of the city.

The Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands are famed for their unique wildlife and role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. They are located about 1,000 km (620 miles) off Ecuador’s coast, they feature volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems. Iconic species include giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Galápagos penguins. The islands offer a rare glimpse of nature’s adaptability in an isolated paradise and should be on everyone's bucket list.

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