8-Day Galapagos Island Hopping — Kicker Rock, Los Tuneles & Puerto Ayora Explorer

Puerto Ayora•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

8 days

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers in moderate physical condition; expect several short hikes, boat transfers, and snorkeling—basic stamina and mobility required.

Overview

An 8-day basic island-hopping loop through San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Isabela that pairs guided boat highlights—Kicker Rock and Los Tuneles—with free days to explore on your own. Ideal for independent travelers who want arranged lodgings and transfers but flexibility between islands.

8-Day Galapagos Island Hopping — Kicker Rock, Los Tuneles & Puerto Ayora Explorer

Other

Bus Tour

Wildlife

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

You step off the small plane into a dry, wind-stiffened air and the first thing that claims your attention is how loud the ocean is here—no city hum, only surf and the metallic calls of boobies and frigates. Days on this 8-day island-hopping loop move at the pace of currents: early boat departures, short hikes that end at cliffs or lava-strewn beaches, and long afternoons watching sea lions rearrange themselves on warm rocks.

Adventure Photos

8-Day Galapagos Island Hopping — Kicker Rock, Los Tuneles & Puerto Ayora Explorer photo 1

Adventure Tips

Travel light for public boats

Pack a soft duffel or small suitcase—public speedboats and taxis have very limited space and staff won’t handle large suitcases for you.

Bring reef-safe sunscreen

Conservation rules and coral health demand mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen—apply before boarding to avoid contaminating water.

Carry cash in small bills

Small shops, taxis and park fees often require cash; larger bills can be hard to change on the islands.

Practice basic swim skills

You’ll snorkel in open water and enter boats from rocky shores; be comfortable treading water and using a mask and snorkel.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Galápagos marine iguana
Blue-footed booby

History

The islands formed from hotspot volcanism and rose to scientific prominence after Charles Darwin’s mid-19th-century observations; fishing communities and research stations grew alongside conservation efforts.

Conservation

The Galápagos National Park enforces strict visitor rules and biosecurity checks—clean boots, no fresh produce between islands and reef-safe products help minimize human impact.