Hear about travel to the Galapagos Islands as the Amateur Traveler talks to Michael from Rochester about doing this bucket list trip as a budget traveler.
Why should you go to the Galapagos?
Michael says, “It is a world location that should not be missed. And you do not have to be an animal enthusiast or safari adventure type person. That certainly helps to have an open mind about ecology and conservation. The animals, the marine life, and their ecosystem. If you have the opportunity to witness it firsthand, it truly is something that should not be missed. It is a marvel.”
This version is land-based (with Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island as the base) rather than a cruise, making it more budget-friendly while still offering access to iconic wildlife and landscapes.
7-Day Galápagos Itinerary (Land-Based, Puerto Ayora Base)
Day 1 – Arrival in Puerto Ayora
- Fly from Quito or Guayaquil to Baltra Airport, then transfer by ferry and taxi to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.
- Check into your hotel (e.g., Hotel Fiesta, Puerto Ayora).
- Stroll along Avenida Charles Darwin: shops, galleries, and restaurants.
- Visit the Puerto Ayora fish market to watch fishermen unload their catch while sea lions, pelicans, and frigatebirds compete for scraps.
- Evening walk along the Malecón (boardwalk) where reef sharks can sometimes be spotted under the lights.
Day 2 – Giant Tortoises & Lava Formations
- Take a taxi tour to the El Chato Tortoise Preserve to see Galápagos giant tortoises in the wild.
- Explore nearby lava tunnels and the Los Gemelos (Twin Craters) volcanic sinkholes.
- Lunch with a harbor view at the Proinsular Market mezzanine (great baked goods and panoramic view).
- Dinner on Binford Street or Baltra Avenue, where fresh seafood is displayed and grilled to order.
Day 3 – Tortuga Bay
- Walk 1.5 miles from town on a paved trail to Tortuga Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the islands.
- Swim or kayak in the lagoon area: spot sea turtles, rays, baby reef sharks, and marine iguanas.
- Bring water and snacks—there are no facilities.
- Return to Puerto Ayora by late afternoon; enjoy a relaxed evening in town.
Day 4 – Day Trip to Bartolomé Island
- Full-day boat excursion to Bartolomé Island (approx. $200).
- Hike up to the panoramic viewpoint overlooking Pinnacle Rock (the classic Galápagos photo spot).
- Snorkel with sea lions, Galápagos penguins, turtles, and colorful marine life.
- Return to Puerto Ayora in the evening.
Day 5 – Bay Tour & Darwin Research Center
- Half-day Bay Tour by boat: includes Las Grietas (volcanic fissures with clear water for snorkeling), Finch Bay, and chances to see blue-footed boobies.
- Lunch at a waterfront resort or local spot across the bay.
- Afternoon at the Charles Darwin Research Center: learn about conservation efforts, tortoise breeding, and Lonesome George’s legacy.
- Dinner at a local Ecuadorian restaurant—seafood or set “comida del día” menus are good value.
Day 6 – Optional Day Trip or Free Day
- Choose an excursion to another island (Floreana, Santa Fe, or Pinzón). Options vary between snorkeling, bird-watching, or exploring unique ecosystems.
- Alternatively, revisit a favorite site (many return to Tortuga Bay or El Chato Tortoise Preserve).
- Evening relaxation in Puerto Ayora: shop for souvenirs, visit galleries, or enjoy the nightlife.
Day 7 – Final Morning & Departure
- Morning stroll along the Malecón or a last snorkel/swim.
- Depart via Baltra Airport to Quito or Guayaquil.
- Wildlife Encounters: Giant tortoises, sea lions (sometimes in hotel pools!), marine iguanas, Galápagos penguins, blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and reef sharks.
- Budget-Friendly: Staying in Puerto Ayora allows flexible, lower-cost dining, lodging, and independent exploration.
- Conservation Focus: Visits to the Darwin Research Center and controlled excursions emphasize ecological protection.
- Flexibility: Free day options let travelers revisit highlights or book tours depending on interest and availability.
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Show Notes
Travel to Machu Picchu, Peru – Amateur Traveler Episode 928
The Best Time to Visit The Galapagos Islands – Amateur Traveler
Galápagos on a Budget – DIY Guide – Amateur Traveler
Galapagos Cruise on Quasar’s Evolution – Amateur Traveler
Travel to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador – Amateur Traveler Episode 755
Puerto Ayora
Darwin Research Center
El Chatto Tortoise Preserve
Tortuga Bay Galapagos Islands – The Ultimate Visitor Guide
Bartolomé Island
Things to do in Santa Cruz Island
Bartolome Island Full-Day Tour by Catamaran Adriana
Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island
Las Grietas Galapagos: A Guide to Swimming in a Volcanic Crack
Hotel Fiesta, Puerto Ayora
Community
Amateur Traveler Trips
