Choosing between a Galapagos Islands hopping land based tour and a Galapagos cruise depends on your preferences, budget, and travel style. Here are the pros of each option before deciding between a Galapagos Islands Cruise or a Island Hopping Land Based tour:
Galapagos Islands Hopping / Land-based Tour
1. Flexibility
With an islands hopping tour, you have more flexibility in choosing your itinerary and activities. You can customize your trip based on your interests and spend more time on specific islands or attractions.
2. Local Interaction
Hopping tours often involve staying on inhabited islands, giving you a chance to interact with the local communities and experience their culture and lifestyle.
3. Budget-Friendly
Islands hopping tours tend to be more budget-friendly compared to Galapagos cruises. You can choose accommodations and dining options that suit your budget and have more control over your expenses.
4. Diverse Land-Based Activities
Hopping tours allow you to engage in a variety of land-based activities such as hiking, snorkeling, visiting beaches, and exploring the islands' unique flora and fauna at your own pace.
Galapagos Cruise
1. Comprehensive Itinerary
Galapagos cruises offer pre-determined itineraries that cover multiple islands and sites. They often provide a more extensive exploration of the archipelago and access to remote locations that are not easily reachable on day trips.
2. Convenience
On a cruise, you have your accommodation, meals, and transportation all in one package. You don't need to worry about organizing logistics or changing accommodations during your trip.
3. Wildlife Encounters
Cruises provide opportunities for wildlife encounters, both on land and in the water. You can see various species up close and witness unique behaviors, guided by experienced naturalist guides.
4. Access to Remote Areas
Some of the more distant and isolated islands can only be reached by cruise, allowing you to explore pristine and less-visited locations in the Galapagos.
5. Onboard Amenities
Cruises often offer additional amenities such as onboard naturalist lectures, spacious cabins, and leisure facilities like dining options, lounges, and observation decks.
Consider your preferences, budget, and the level of comfort and convenience you seek when making a decision. If you value flexibility, local interaction, and a more budget-friendly option, an islands hopping tour may be suitable. On the other hand, if you prefer a comprehensive itinerary, convenience, and the comfort of onboard amenities, a Galapagos cruise may be the better choice.
Still hesitating? Contact a local Galapagos Travel Expert who will help you find the best option based on your own travel requirements: