Galápagos Islands Holidays

Sitting in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ecuador are 19 islands and dozens of rocks and islets that make up the impeccable, otherworldly and on-many-a-bucket-list archipelago of the Galápagos Islands. Famed for the utterly unique animal species to be found not only in the archipelago as a whole but on each individual island within, visiting this incredible destination - where animals continue to roam in absolute freedom - is truly an experience like no other.

Thanks to its isolation and UNESCO World Heritage Site status, the human footprint on the islands is still minimal, meaning the animals in the Galápagos are beautifully unfazed by human presence and often wander to within an excitingly close proximity thanks to their own curiosity of these strange human visitors. But it's not only the wildlife that will wow you, as the archipelago's landscapes are just as unique, varied and impressive as its wildlife. Barren coastlines characterised by volcanic rock formations and lava fields are alternated with lush green highlands, sunken volcano craters and spectacular white-sand beaches leading into sparkling crystal-clear waters. This is genuinely the world's greatest, most beautiful. wildlife destination and makes for a holiday truly unlike any other.

Given their remote location out in the Pacific Ocean, and covering an enormous 45,000 square kilometres of ocean, it will come as no surprise that taking a cruise is one of the best ways to enjoy the Galápagos Islands. Sail around these picture-perfect islands encountering dolphins, whales, and a plethora of stunning birdlife before exploring secret coves and rocky outcrops that are impossible to reach any way other than by boat. Many places in the Galápagos are only open to cruise ship passengers, so for the fullest experience of this magical destination, you’ll want to take to the water. Learn more about cruising in the Galápagos and the range of ships on offer.

Maybe your sea legs aren't up to a purely boat-based holiday, or perhaps you just want a bit more time to explore this unique part of the world on foot. Whatever the reason, a land-based holiday in the Galápagos – whether for your whole stay or as an add-on following a shorter cruise – will certainly not leave you feeling as though you've missed out. From incredible volcanic landscapes to white sandy beaches, verdant forests to gleaming rock pools, and incredible and unique wildlife around every corner, exploring on foot has never been more exciting. And with stunning accommodation, island-hopping day trips and all manner of land- or water-based excursions available, a land-based holiday in the Galápagos is sure to be your most magical nature-immersed-holiday yet.