About Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands are unlike anywhere else—remote, raw and teeming with wildlife, yet increasingly home to stylish places to stay. Whether you’re after toes-in-the-sand views, eco-chic safari tents or hilltop hideaways with serious luxury credentials, the best places to stay in the Galápagos Islands are as varied as the landscapes. From beachfront relaxation to forested seclusion, there’s a stay to suit every kind of traveller across these extraordinary isles.

Exploring the Galápagos is all about getting close to nature—snorkelling with sea lions off Isabela’s coast, hiking lava fields on Santiago, or spotting giant tortoises in the Santa Cruz highlands. Daily boat excursions unlock remote coves and volcanic islets, while back on land, you can roam wildlife trails straight from your lodge or glide out by kayak from your hotel’s beach. For those staying near Puerto Ayora, the Charles Darwin Research Station offers insight into conservation work and is just a short hop from the town’s laid-back cafés and seafood joints.

Evenings tend to be low-key, but you’ll find a growing scene of oceanfront bars and relaxed restaurants—ideal for sundowners after a day of adventure. If you're based inland, expect more peaceful evenings, perhaps with private dining under the stars or a soak in your villa’s plunge pool. Boutique properties in the highlands offer cooler air, forest views and easy access to scenic trails, while contemporary beach hotels place you steps from the sea and a short water-taxi ride from town. More remote luxury stays offer full-board experiences, spa treatments, and curated excursions that let you explore with minimal hassle. Wherever you base yourself, the right hotel can turn a once-in-a-lifetime trip into something truly unforgettable.

A unique place to explore; to start planning your trip browse through our collection of the best places to stay in the Galapagos Islands.

The best Places to Stay in the Galapagos Islands

For Sea Views

  • The Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel on Isabela Island sits right on the seafront, with panoramic ocean views from many rooms and the rooftop terrace. It's one of the best spots on the island to watch the sunset over the Pacific, and the infinity pool faces directly out to sea. 

Luxury Living

  • Set on a secluded hilltop on Santa Cruz, Pikaia Lodge blends cutting-edge design with sweeping views of the volcanic landscape and coastline. Floor-to-ceiling windows, a state-of-the-art spa and an infinity pool create a sleek and indulgent base for exploring the islands. It’s one of the most exclusive addresses in the Galápagos, with exceptional service and a strong eco-ethos.

Eco-Chic

  • Galápagos Safari Camp offers a unique glamping experience in luxury tents with polished wood floors, canopied beds and open-air bathrooms, tucked into a private reserve in the highlands of Santa Cruz. The camp is solar-powered and designed to blend with the landscape, making it a favourite with eco-conscious travellers. 

Boutique

  • Set in the peaceful highlands of Santa Cruz, Royal Palm Hotel offers a refined retreat surrounded by lush forest. Its traditional casitas and spacious villas are dotted across expansive grounds, creating a sense of privacy and calm. Known for warm service and excellent food, it’s a boutique stay with classic style and a strong sense of place.

Contemporary

  • Finch Bay Hotel sits by a quiet beach just outside Puerto Ayora and offers a smart, minimalist take on island style. Interiors are bright and modern, with locally inspired art and sustainable materials. It’s a short water-taxi ride from town but feels worlds away, making it perfect for those who want both convenience and calm.

For an Apartment or Villa

  • If you've decided that a self-catering property would be more suitable for your holiday, then we recommend you visit our online booking partner Booking.com where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets.

Travel Information

  • The only way to get to the islands from the mainland is by plane to Isla Baltra Airport from Quito and Guayaquil airports.
  • Best time to visit - The Galapagos Islands have a highly variable climate. December to June brings the hot/rainy season where temperatures average around 26°-30° C. From June to November temperatures cool off and range between 20°-24° C. The most popular time to visit for naturalists is between December - May when the seas are the calmest.
  • If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

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The best hotels in Galapagos Islands

Iguana Crossing

Galapagos Islands (Puerto Villamil - Isabela)

A boutique property overlooking the sea and surrounded by the Galapagos' wild landscape. Smart rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, most have terraces and luxurious bathrooms. A tranquil pool provides a relaxing spot to unwind after a days exploring. The ideal spot for nature lovers.

  • Back to Nature - As the name suggests the hotel is situated amongst wildlife (namely iguanas).
  • Sights nearby - Visit the 'Wall of Tears', an eerie reminder of Isabela's past.
  • Restaurant
  • On the beach
from $228 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Royal Palm Hotel

Galapagos Islands (Isla Santa Cruz)

A small boutique hotel set in an outstanding remote location in the centre of the Galapagos. A collection of casitas and villas are charmingly decorated with white washed walls, beamed ceilings and antique furniture. Spend days exploring land and sea before returning for indulgent dinners. Fabulous.

  • Hideaway - A glorious hideaway set in the lush Miconia highland forests of Santa Cruz in the heart of the Galapagos.
  • Diving - Find a great diversity of sealife on a dive. PADI courses are also on offer for beginners.
  • Sailing - Charter a yacht and explore the islands with a hotel guide.
  • Spa
from $304 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

Galapagos Islands (Galapagos Islands)

Charming eco-friendly hotel with a beautiful beach front location. Light rooms are all white on white, dressed with contemporary art, and feature large terraces. Feast on gourmet regional dishes and find endless unique activities found exclusively in the Galapagos. Superb.

  • Beach Life - Just steps from the beach and complete with a selection of yachts for island exploration.
  • Back to Nature - The Galapagos are well renowned for their fascinating array of flora and fauna.
  • Diving - World-class diving, professional instructors and PADI designed courses.
  • Spa - Gym, hot tub and yoga studio
from $348 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Galapagos Safari Camp

Galapagos Islands

Hidden in the depths of the forest find a luxury tented camp perfectly primed for adventure holidays. Atmospheric tents feature Ecuadorian rugs, teak furniture and large windows opening onto epic views. Unwind by the naturally inspired infinity pool and gorge on regional fare. An eco-friendly gem.

  • Back to Nature - Be surrounded by volcanic landscapes, unique wildlife and unspoilt jungle.
  • Restaurant
  • Boutique
  • Swimming Pool
from $819 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Pikaia Lodge

Galapagos Islands (100m of Cerro Mesa)

A game changer of a property offering boutique luxury in the Galapagos. Stunning contemporary rooms boast epic vistas from the floor to ceiling windows and sleek minimalist design. A gorgeous infinity pool and spoiling spa fill all one's pampering needs. The cuisine is on point too. Very chic.

  • Back to Nature - The Glapagos is the king of natural wonders and this boutique hotel boasts a remote location in the heart of it all.
  • Spa
  • Restaurant
  • Boutique
from $2016 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees