A wildlife cruise in the Galápagos Islands can undoubtedly be an amazingly life-affirming experience, but if you’re travelling as a family with younger children, are prone to seasickness or would simply like to explore with a private guide in greater depth away from the crowds, then staying at land-based accommodation is often a better solution.
You’ll have the freedom to follow a bespoke itinerary tailored to your interests, discovering hidden gems and secluded beaches, observing endemic wildlife, hiking volcanic trails and snorkelling in pristine waters, while enhancing your understanding of this remarkable ecosystem with experts. And if you combine a stay on the main island Santa Cruz with some time on neighbouring island Isabela, you’ll not only see the vast majority of species you would on a cruise, but also enjoy a wide range of adventure activities that are simply not possible from a motor yacht.
"On foot you can explore lava tunnels, trek up to high volcanic peaks with sensational views, and hike through cactus forests to coastal outcrops to be greeted by marine iguanas and lava lizards."
Our preferred way of offering a land-based adventure in the Galápagos is to start on Santa Cruz, staying at a wonderful private villa located slap-bang in the middle of a giant tortoise migration super-highway. In addition to smart digs, superb hospitality and seriously delicious organic Ecuadorian dishes prepared by your private chef, you’ll have the islands’ best guides accompany you as you explore the island.
We can adapt the programme to suit your age, interest and experience. There are mountain biking trails through highland coffee farms and along deserted beaches, while on foot you can explore lava tunnels, trek up to high volcanic peaks with sensational views, and hike through cactus forests to coastal outcrops to be greeted by marine iguanas and lava lizards. On and under the water, there’s even more to enjoy. Kayak through mangrove forests, go stand-up paddling, snorkel with sea lions, and take a private yacht to islands not visited on cruise itineraries. If you’re actively interested in conservation, we can even take you out with marine biologists to tag baby hammerhead sharks.
Combining Santa Cruz with Isabela is easily done by taking a 30-minute flight between the two islands. Here you can stay at a tented camp in the highlands, set amongst a magical bird-filled forest with spectacular views out across much of the archipelago. You can choose to amp up the adrenaline with a breathtaking mountain bike descent from the rim of Sierra Negra Volcano or go surfing with a local champion. If you prefer to take it easier, slowly kayak along the coastline to see rare Galápagos penguins, swim with seahorses, or cycle out to flamingo-filled lagoons. And, if you’re a fan of deserted islands, we’ll charter a yacht to take you to a secret spot where you can snorkel or dive with sea turtles and manta rays.
