Islands in Ecuador
Known throughout the world for the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador is home to some of the planet's most beautiful islands. The Galápagos Islands are of volcanic orgin, and host both stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. You can relax along a white-sand beach, snorkel among tropical fish, and hike to see giant tortoises all within a single day. The islands are also fairly close to one another, which allows you to visit several islands throughout the course of your trip.
The best places to visit in Islands in Ecuador
From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, explore the Islands in Ecuador destinations our local insiders recommend most.
Santiago
Santiago Island lies just north of Santa Cruz Island, and is comparable in size. With several visitor sites dispersed across the island, there are great opportunities to walk recent lava flows, observe colonies of fur seals, and snorkel in submerged lava cones.
Explore DestinationBaltra Island
Baltra Island is the starting point for most visitors to the Galápagos, as it’s the site of the archipelago’s airport. The Baltra airport was remodeled in 2008 and has the usual amenities of a modern-day airport. Upon landing here, visitors will connect with board their cruises or take a boat directly to Santa Cruz Island, where plenty of lovely hotels and interesting wildlife attractions await.
Explore DestinationEspanola
Española is one of the most remote islands in the Galápagos. Fortunately, the wildlife and scenery here is well worth the long boat ride.
Explore DestinationBartolome
While at first glance this small island looks rather unspectacular, it is a visitor favorite. Once you climb to the island’s 375-ft (114-m) summit you’ll see why.
Explore DestinationFernandina
Adjacent to Isabela Island is the westernmost island of Fernandina. This island is a popular stop during cruise tours. Fernandina has seen very few invasive species and minimal human activity, making it one of the most pristine islands in the Galápagos.
Explore DestinationSeymour Norte
A small plateau of an island, North Seymour (Seymour Norte) lies just north of Baltra Island. This small island is a bird watcher’s paradise.
Explore DestinationFloreana
This island’s natural beauty is overshadowed by its quirky human history. As one of the first inhabited islands in the Galápagos, Floreana was initially home to a handful of settlers, who came to the island in the 1920s. Within a decade, several of those early settlers had gone missing, and the mystery of how or why remains unsolved.
Explore DestinationLeon Dormido
The name of this island is rightfully disputed. From a distance, it resembles a sleeping sea lion, giving it the name León Dormido. To others it may look like a boot, giving it the English name Kicker Rock. Regardless of the name you think fits it best, this 480-ft (146-m) rock formation is impressive. It rises abruptly out of the sea and is teeming with wildlife both above and below the water.
Explore DestinationIslands in Ecuador itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Islands in Ecuador itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Inland, Islands & Amazon
Ecuador is a wonderful country where we were able to travel by road for over 1200 KM during our two weeks trip and see the different parts of the country.
Two Weeks in Ecuador
Embark on a two‑week Ecuador adventure that juxtaposes bustling Andean capitals with remote volcanic islands, delivering a vivid contrast of urban energy and pristine nature. Traverse Quito’s historic streets, soar over the crater lake of Quilotoa, then island‑hop to the Galápagos for lava tunnels, Santa Cruz highlands, and sea‑lion encounters. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll taste traditional cuisine, hear indigenous stories, and return with a deep appreciation for Ecuador’s cultural richness and extraordinary biodiversity.
Stress-Free Solo Journey in Ecuador
I loved my trip. It was well organized
Everything We Had Hoped For
I loved using Anywhere Ecuador for this trip! We had a fantastic time. I gave a four out of five because we had some logistical challenges with our day trips and getting back to the airport.
It Was Hard to Say Goodbye
Ecuador is a beautiful country from Quito all the way to the coast of Guayaquil. It is definitely a must. Percy was amazing in helping us plan our trip, as I must have changed my itinerary about a million times. Even when I had questions during our trip he was right there ready to help and took care of everything. Now, there are no words to describe our driver, (which we were lucky to have for 9 days) Ricardo. He was professional, friendly and went above and beyond to help make our Ecuador experience one to remember. It was sad to say good bye, but one thing is for sure when we plan our next trip to Ecuador we will be asking for Ricardo again.
Treasures of The Galapagos
Words cannot express the wonderful experiences we had in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. We try to explain our enthusiasm for our trip to our friends, but words become inadequate and so we simply encourage them to arrange their own adventure to Ecuador/Galapagos through Anywhere! We are anxious to start planning a return trip to explore more of the mainland of Ecuador. We owe a great deal of our curiosity about Ecuador to our driver Ricardo, who was an enthusiastic cheerleader for the country.
Friends Ecuador Adventure
Joyce explored Ecuador’s diverse landscapes on an adventure that combined highland culture and coastal wonders. She trekked from Quito’s historic center to Baños’ volcanic landscape, then sailed to the Galápagos for island tours of Lobo, León Dormido, and San Cristóbal. Guides shared indigenous stories, local cuisine, and conservation insights, leaving Joyce with a lasting appreciation for Ecuador’s vibrant ecosystems and warm hospitality.
From The Andes to The Amazons
If adventure, nature, and culture are at the top of your travel to-do list, then prepare for a trip that you won’t soon forget. Experience the rugged beauty of Ecuador.
Andes Highlands to Galapagos
Have it all! Rest, relaxation, adventure, and nature are yours when you book this Signature Trip to Ecuador. From Quito to the Galapagos, Ecuador will enchant you…
Hit Refresh—Unplug in Ecuador
Natural beauty, graceful architecture, rugged excursions, and a destination that’s on every “Must See in Your Lifetime” list… Yes, Ecuador has all of this and more.
Darwin’s Footsteps: A Solo Adventure
Take yourself through Ecuador’s islands, explore colonial cities, and enjoy delicious cuisine every step of the way. Check this 'Must See' destination off of your bucket.
The Best of The Galapagos—for You
Go on a grand adventure for one. Enjoy the flora and fauna of the world famous Galapagos Islands; witness the magic of a world where nature is left to her own devices.
An Incan Adventure for One
Blaze your own trail on this safe solo adventure as you walk in the footsteps of the Incas. Explore the highlands and the valley, history and culture, and cuisine.
Nature Off the Screen
If your travel goal is to show your family the natural world, then this is the vacation you need. You’ll get outside, explore amazing destinations, and see animals in their natural habitat.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
