Cruises have long been the most popular way to explore the Galapagos Islands, but in recent years the boom in hotels and day-tour operators on the four inhabited islands in the Galapagos has led to a surge in the popularity of land-based Galapagos travel as well. If you are hoping to visit these enchanted islands by land, then the best way to do it is through a resort or all-inclusive lodge.

Which hotel?

Since there are a greater number of hotels, hostels, lodges, and resorts on the Galapagos Islands now than ever before, choosing the right one might seem like a hard choice.

If the price benefits of land-based travel drew you to this option, then you might be inclined to book one of the cheaper hotels, hoping to save your money there and budget it for day-tours or perhaps meals. In fact, the best option for both your wallet and your itinerary is to book an all-inclusive tour at a lodge or resort. That might seem counterintuitive at first, but that little bit extra you spend on the all-inclusive package will be worth it in the end when you experience all the Galapagos Islands have to offer.

Here are the top options on Santa Cruz and Isabela:

Finch Bay (Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz)

Secluded across a private bay in Puerto Ayora, Finch Bay Eco Hotel accommodates guests in just 21 rooms and 6 suites, guaranteeing an intimate experience, conveniently close but removed from the hustle and bustle of town.

• What stands out:
  • 4 & 5-day program packages including lodging, daily breakfast, lunch during activities, customizable itineraries, WiFi internet, airport assistance in Quito or Guayaquil, Galapagos ground transportation.
  • Finch Bay is the only beachfront hotel in Puerto Ayora.
  • Four of the suites are interconnected, which makes Finch Bay a great choice for families.
  • The architecture integrates dark volcanic rock and wood to make the hotel blend seamlessly into the environment.
• Good to know: Several rooms are bay-view rather than ocean view (still a great view!); there are no TVs in the rooms (this was a choice by the designers to emphasize the relaxation and nature); the hotel is not in Puerto Ayora, but there is a water taxi that takes guests from the public dock across the bay to the hotel (private transportation can be arranged when booking).