Why choose a land-based holiday in the Galápagos?
A wildlife cruise in the Galápagos Islands can undoubtedly be an amazingly life-affirming experience, but if you’re travelling on a family holiday with younger children, are prone to seasickness or would simply like to explore with a private guide in greater depth away from the crowds, land-based stays may be a better solution.
If you combine a luxury stay on the main island, Santa Cruz, with some time on neighbouring island Isabela (the two largest of the Galápagos islands), 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.
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.
"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."
Santa Cruz island stays
A private villa on Santa Cruz
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 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 private guides accompany you as you explore the island.
Experiences on Santa Cruz island: land and water explorations
We can adapt the programme for your tour of Santa Cruz island 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 take you out with marine biologists to tag baby hammerhead sharks.
Isabella island adventures
Tented luxury accommodation on Isabella Island
Combining Santa Cruz with Isabela is easily done by taking a 30-minute flight between the two islands. Stay in a modern, luxurious, resort on Isabela Island on the slopes of a volcano. Here you can have a safari-style tented camp, set amongst a magical bird-filled forest with spectacular views out across much of the archipelago.
Extraordinary Isabella island experiences
You can choose to amp up the adrenaline with a breath-taking 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.
Who is a luxury Galápagos land-based holiday for?
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a luxury romantic getaway, or a solo retreat, a land-based Galápagos adventure offers unmatched flexibility and personalization. With private guides and bespoke itineraries, every experience is crafted to meet your specific interests and pace, and is perfect for those that want to see wildlife and experience the unique landscapes of these islands.
Plan your luxury Galápagos journey
A land-based holiday in the Galápagos Islands combines the comfort and exclusivity of luxury accommodations with the thrill of personalized adventures. From Santa Cruz to Isabela, each moment is designed to immerse you in the natural wonders of this extraordinary destination.
Contact our Galapagos specialists to begin designing your bespoke Galápagos luxury adventure.
