Got 4 Days? Spend Them In The Galapagos Islands
Planning a trip to the Galápagos Islands? With otherworldly landscapes, unique wildlife, and some of the best snorkeling on the planet, it’s no wonder this destination tops so many bucket lists.
If you only have 4 days, don’t worry - you can still experience the highlights. This 4-day Galápagos itinerary covers the best islands, wildlife encounters, and views you can’t miss.
🗓️ How Many Days Do You Really Need in the Galápagos?
Ideally, travelers spend 7 - 10 days in the Galápagos, but not everyone has that much time. A 4 - 5 day Galápagos trip is perfect if you want to see the most famous islands, snorkel in pristine waters, and meet the wildlife the islands are known for.
☀️ Best Time to Visit
December – May: Warm waters, calm seas, and ideal snorkeling conditions. In some areas, I didn’t even need a wetsuit.
June – November: Cooler waters and rougher seas, but this is prime time for wildlife viewing, especially birds and marine life.
Where we stayed
We spent 5 days on the Isabella II Yacht. The yacht held around 40 people and was the PERFECT intimate experience for the Galapagos. The crew was fantastic and kept us on time and in line while exploring. We also had some of the most mouth-watering food I’ve ever had in my life. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were all home cooked and gave us a great taste of Ecuadorian cuisine. If you’re looking to explore the islands via boat, I highly recommend booking with the Isabella II!
If you are not much of a boat person, you can still experience the islands. There are plenty of day trips that leave directly from Santa Cruz Island - so you can make that your home base and stay on land for the duration of your trip to the Galapagos.
4 Days in the Galápagos Islands Itinerary
This was our exact day-by-day Galápagos itinerary. I felt that it was the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation .
Day 1: Arrival in Santa Cruz Island
Fly into Baltra Island (via Quito and Guayaquil).
Take a ferry to Santa Cruz Island.
Explore lava tunnels and marvel at volcanic formations.
Visit a giant tortoise sanctuary and see these iconic animals in their natural habitat.
Evening: Stroll the Santa Cruz harbor for shops, local restaurants, and sunset views.
Board your yacht (Isabella II!)
Day 2: Santiago Island + Chinese Hat Islet
Morning: Cruise to Santiago Island.
See marine iguanas basking on lava rocks.
Spot blue-footed boobies diving into the water.
Relax and/or snorkel on the black sand beach.
Afternoon: Visit Chinese Hat Islet.
Snorkel with playful sea lions.
Swim alongside Galápagos penguins.
Enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
Day 3: Genovesa Island & Darwin’s Bay
Sunrise: Snorkel in Darwin’s Bay
Snorkel with hammerhead sharks
Morning: Head to Genovesa Island.
Birdwatching paradise: frigate birds, red-footed boobies, and more.
Spot fur seals resting on the shores.
Optional: Kayak in the peaceful waters.
Afternoon: Explore Darwin’s Bay.
Snorkel with sea lions.
Watch colonies of seabirds nesting.
End the day with incredible sunset views.
Day 4: Santa Fe Island + South Plaza Island
Morning: Visit Santa Fe Island.
See the rare Santa Fe land iguanas.
Walk among giant cactus trees growing by the sea.
Snorkel in turquoise waters with colorful fish.
Afternoon: Explore South Plaza Island.
Spot hybrid iguanas (a cross between land and marine iguanas).
Marvel at cliffs that rival Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher.
Enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and volcanic landscapes.
🌄 Best Views in the Galápagos
Santiago Island: Dramatic lava formations.
Darwin’s Bay: Iconic sunset spot.
Santa Fe Island: Coastal cliffs and cactus trees.
🏝️ Where to Stay in the Galápagos
Yacht Cruises: Ideal for visiting multiple remote islands with ease.
Santa Cruz Hotels: Great for budget and mid-range travelers—do day trips from here.
✈️ How to Get to the Galápagos
Fly into Baltra Island from Quito or Guayaquil.
Take a ferry to Santa Cruz Island (common base for travelers).
Book either day tours or short cruises to visit other islands.
🚨 Essential Travel Tips for the Galápagos
Fees: $200 Galápagos National Park entrance fee (cash only) + $20 transit card.
Packing List: Reef-safe sunscreen, motion sickness medication, waterproof bags, and a good camera.
Sustainability: Stay on marked trails, don’t touch or feed the wildlife, and respect the ecosystem.
Guides: Most excursions require a licensed naturalist, but towns can be explored independently.
Final Thoughts on 4 Days in the Galápagos
Even with just 4 days, you’ll experience the highlights of this unique archipelago; from snorkeling with sea lions and penguins to exploring lava tunnels and spotting giant tortoises.
The Galápagos is truly a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Don’t wait until the “perfect time.” Book the adventure now and let these islands show you why they’ve inspired travelers for centuries.
Until next time,
