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The Galapagos Islands, known for their breathtaking biodiversity and pristine environment, are often at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists. For nature lovers, it’s an adventure of a lifetime. After finding a great flight deal to Ecuador, I decided to make my dream trip a reality. However, as anyone familiar with the Galapagos knows, it’s not the most affordable destination. That said, with careful planning, it’s definitely possible to travel the Galapagos on a budget.
Before diving into the budgeting tips, it’s important to understand why the Galapagos can be expensive. There are a few main reasons for the high costs. Remoteness is the first—though part of Ecuador, the Galapagos is located roughly 600 mi (967 km) off the coast. This isolation means that virtually everything—food, fuel, goods—must be imported, driving up costs. The second reason is conservation. The Galapagos is a delicate and ecologically significant ecosystem, and maintaining its pristine condition requires significant resources.
In 2023, nearly 330,000 visitors arrived in the Galapagos, making tourism an essential yet sensitive part of the local economy. When you arrive at the islands, there is a $200 USD entry fee. This fee is mandatory, paid in cash upon arrival, and supports efforts to protect and preserve the natural beauty of the islands, fund conservation projects, and help maintain the national park’s infrastructure. The fee also serves to regulate tourism, ensuring the islands’ fragile environment is not overwhelmed.
With these factors in mind, let’s dive into how you can explore the Galapagos on a budget without sacrificing on experience.
How to Travel the Galapagos on a Budget:
1. Find Great Flight Deals
Finding affordable flights is one of the best ways to visit the Galapagos on a budget. To save money, book your flights well in advance and stay flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of the best deals.
Your journey to the Galapagos Islands will start with a flight to either Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE), Ecuador. While flights to Quito are often cheaper, keep in mind that you’ll need to book a separate flight to the Galapagos, typically landing at Baltra (GPS) or San Cristobal (SCY) airports. Guayaquil offers shorter and often more affordable flights to the islands, making it a preferred option for budget-conscious travelers.
To find the best airfare, use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights and set up alerts for price drops. On my trip, I secured a round-trip ticket from Los Angeles to Quito on Copa Airlines for under $400 USD.
2. Travel in the Off-Season
The Galapagos Islands experience two seasons: the cool, dry season from June to November and the warm, wet season from December to May. Despite these seasonal variations, the Galapagos is a year-round destination, with abundant wildlife present regardless of when you visit.
For those looking to explore the Galapagos on a budget, traveling during the off-season can lead to significant savings on cruises and accommodations. The busiest (and most expensive) periods coincide with holidays, spring break, and summer vacation. September and October tend to be cooler, and a wetsuit is necessary for snorkeling, but these months also see fewer tourists and better deals.
I visited in early October and found it to be an excellent time—crowds were minimal, last-minute tours were easy to book, and while there was occasional rain, it didn’t disrupt my itinerary.
3. Cruise Vs. Land-Based Itinerary
While many travelers automatically think of a cruise when planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, it’s not the only way to explore this unique destination. While a cruise offers several advantages—such as the ability to visit more remote islands, an all-inclusive experience, and the convenience of traveling at night to save time—it can also be quite expensive. Cruises start around $1,500 USD and can climb to $5,000 USD or more, depending on the boat, length of the trip, and season.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, a land-based itinerary can be just as rewarding. This style of travel allows for flexibility, as you can explore the islands at your own pace. Getting around the islands is easy and you can experience similar landscapes and wildlife without the added expense. Tour agencies also offer day trips to some of the uninhabited islands. If you’re willing to put in a little planning, this option is ideal for those looking to visit the Galapagos on a budget.
To travel between the islands, you can fly into San Cristobal (SCY) or Santa Cruz (GPS) airports, and then use the ferry to get between the three inhabited islands—San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, and Isabela. The ferry costs $38 USD each way, or $30-35 USD if you buy tickets last minute in town. Ferries run twice daily (morning and afternoon), providing a convenient and affordable way to hop between islands and explore at your own pace.
There are plenty of affordable accommodations on the three main islands—San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, and Isabela— with Isabela Island being the most affordable and offering the most variety in terms of activities. I highly recommend spending the majority of your time here.
4. Book Budget Accommodations
Many accommodations on the inhabited islands of San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, and Isabela, are small, family-run hotels or hostels. There are very few large or luxury hotels, so travelers can expect a more intimate and local experience. I personally enjoyed a mix of budget hotels and hostels, which offered great value for money.
For those on a budget, hostels can be found for as low as $25 USD per night, while budget hotels average around $70 USD per night. To save on transportation costs, it’s a good idea to stay within walking distance of town, as taxis can add up. If you’re traveling during the low season, you have the option of booking in advance or waiting until you arrive to see if an even better deal can be found.
Here are a few affordable options:
Hotel Star Fish
Located on Isabela Island, Hotel Star Fish is a small and comfortable hotel. The staff, particularly the friendly woman running the office, is knowledgeable about the island and can help arrange tours and transportation. It’s centrally located, allowing you to walk or bike easily to most points of interest in town.
La Fortaleza De Haro
La Fortaleza De Haro is a family-run guesthouse on Santa Cruz Island. It’s located just a 15-minute walk from the beach and an even shorter walk to the center of town. This small hotel features a pool, strong Wi-Fi, and an interesting castle-like design. The friendly owners are happy to assist with activity bookings and airport transfers.
Hostel Casa de Laura
For those seeking the lowest rates, Hostel Casa de Laura in San Cristobal is a great option, with rates starting as low as $25 USD per night. This budget-friendly hostel is conveniently located in town. Keep in mind that hot water isn’t guaranteed, which is fine for a short stay but might not be ideal for longer visits or stays during cooler months.
5. Book Tours on Arrival
When traveling to the Galapagos on a budget, one of the most cost-effective ways to book tours is upon arrival. Each island has numerous agencies in town offering a variety of tours. I found that many hostels and hotels are happy to assist with bookings as well. However, be mindful that many tours tend to depart early in the morning. To ensure you get your preferred tour, it’s advisable to book the day before.
Although booking through third-party services can be convenient, you’ll often find that booking directly with the tour operator will get you the best price. I had a fantastic experience with Eco-Challenger Galapagos in San Cristobal, where I booked a tour to Kicker Rock. Kicker Rock is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, known for its impressive amounts of marine life. The company provided a knowledgeable and passionate naturalist guide, which made for an incredible experience.
For those on Isabela, I recommend Cactus Dive Shop for your tour bookings. While it can be a bit tricky to find, it’s worth the effort. Located next to Hotel Cactus, the shop offers reasonably priced tours without compromising on quality. The guides are great, and I had a wonderful day snorkeling at Los Tuneles, one of the most stunning spots on Isabela. The area is famous for its unique lava formations and abundant marine life, making it a must-see.
6. Find Inexpensive Meals
Finding affordable meals on the Galapagos Islands can be challenging, but with a little effort, it’s certainly possible. Isabela Island stands out as the most budget-friendly option for food. Around the town, you’ll find a variety of eateries offering lunch specials for around $8 USD, which typically include soup, an entrée, and dessert—a great deal. If you’re in the mood for something quick and tasty, there are also a couple of spots on the outskirts of town where you can pick up giant empanadas stuffed with your choice of meats and vegetables for just $1 USD each.
Finding cheap eats in San Cristobal and Santa Cruz is a bit more difficult, as food prices can be inflated due to the tourist demand. Despite this, there are still some good and relatively affordable options. One of the more affordable places I found in Santa Cruz is Aqua Cocina Nativa, a small crepe restaurant that offers delicious and reasonably priced meals. For the best deals, try exploring backstreets and getting off the main roads. Look for small local spots that offer a plate of the day.
7. Free Activities in the Galapagos
Most activities in the Galapagos require you to be with a naturalist guide. This is essential for ensuring that the Galapagos National Park regulations are followed and for safeguarding the unique wildlife of the islands. However, there are still plenty of free and low-cost activities that allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the Galapagos when exploring on a budget.
Budget-Friendly Activities in Isabela:
Concha de Perla
A must-visit location on Isabela Island is Concha de Perla, a shallow area that’s perfect for snorkeling. You will also have the opportunity to swim with sea lions here. The playful creatures are often seen lounging around the area in the morning. If you bring your own mask and gear, it’s completely free to enjoy. Rentals are available for those without equipment. The best time to visit is during low tide, as it provides the best visibility and calm conditions for exploring.
Bike around the Island
Another affordable activity in Isabela is biking. While not free, bike rentals are inexpensive, typically costing about $3 USD per hour. Renting a bike gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. You can cycle to the flamingo lagoons, head toward the Wall of Tears, or simply enjoy the scenic beach routes.
Budget-Friendly Activities in San Cristobal:
La Loberia Beach
While in San Cristobal, La Loberia Beach is a must-visit destination. The beach’s pristine, clear waters are perfect for a swim or a leisurely walk along the shore. Situated just a short cab ride from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the island’s main town, the ride costs around $3 USD, making it a budget-friendly excursion. Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself at a beautiful and relatively quiet beach, perfect for enjoying nature.
La Loberia is most famous for its resident sea lions. They can often be seen lounging on the sand or swimming just offshore, offering a unique opportunity to observe them up close in their natural habitat. The beach is also home to marine iguanas, which can be spotted basking on the rocks near the shoreline.
Budget-Friendly Activities in Santa Cruz:
Tortuga Bay
A trip to Tortuga Bay is a must when visiting Santa Cruz. You can reach the beach by either a water taxi or a walking path. If you prefer to taxi, the fare to the entrance from the pier is only about $2 USD. However, I would choose the walking path as it is quite scenic and enjoyable.
It takes about 30-45 minutes from the trailhead to reach the stunning white sand beach with turquoise waters, known as Tortuga Bay. Here you’ll encounter hundreds of marine iguanas basking in the sun. It’s a great place to relax and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Galapagos.
Charles Darwin Research Station
The Charles Darwin Research Station is another must-see attraction. Visitors can access the site for free with a National Park entrance ticket or choose a guided tour for a small fee. The center is the base for ongoing scientific research and conservation efforts in the Galapagos. It’s also the breeding center for the Galapagos Tortoise, offering visitors the chance to see the species at various life stages. Some of the tortoises are over 100 years old. It’s an informative and educational experience that provides insight into the critical work done to protect the islands’ unique wildlife.
El Chato Tortoise Reserve
For a more immersive experience with the Galapagos tortoises, I recommend visiting the El Chato Tortoise Reserve. This is an affordable activity with an admission fee of just $5 USD that allows you to hike around the reserve and observe the tortoises in their natural environment. There are also some lava tunnels to explore.
Note that it’s located about 40 minutes outside of Puerto Ayora, so the cab ride can be a bit pricey. To save on transportation costs, consider sharing a ride with others from your hostel, or plan to visit on your way to or from the airport, as it’s conveniently located along that route.
The Galapagos is a truly extraordinary destination, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes. While it may have a reputation for being expensive, I hope these tips have shown that experiencing the Galapagos on a budget is entirely possible with the right planning. With a little flexibility and strategic choices, you can make this once-in-a-lifetime adventure both unforgettable and affordable.
Have you been to the Galapagos? Do you have any tips for traveling the Galapagos on a budget? If you’ve enjoyed this post, please leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. For the perfect land-based itinerary, continue to my post, “The Ultimate Galapagos Land-Based Itinerary“.
What absolutely incredible photos, and a dream trip for sure. I would love to go here and see it for myself. Good to know there are some cheaper options too, especially for accommodation and food which end up being the biggest part of most people’s budget
I’ve always wanted to visit the Galapagos but have been put off by the price, its good to know what can be budgeted for and what are set like the entry fee when you arrive. Thanks for sharing!
Was there a particular tour company you used which you would recommend? Did you just find them in town and book based on what you knew you wished to do?
So I traveled there independently, but once on the islands I found agencies around town that I booked day trips with. They all basically offer the same things…some charge more than others, so it’s a good idea to visit a couple and feel them out. Or you can book directly with the dive shops. Cactus Dive on Isabela was great.
Such an informative guide! I have always thought Galapagos as an expensive destination but I think you changed my mind! Thanks for the restaurants’ recommendations too, finding cheap eats is always a challenge at touristic places!
I have always wanted to go to the Galapagos to see the wildlife! And I love sea lions so that would be awesome! Great tips to keep in mind for when I finally do start booking it! Thanks!
Welcome! It’s an amazing place. You’ll have a wonderful time!