Also known as the “living museum and showcase of evolution,” the Galapagos Islands are an archipelago part of the Republic of Ecuador. Located in the Pacific Ocean, these islands are home to one of the richest marine ecosystems of the world. Therefore, thousands of people travel here each year and look for the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands. On these islands, you’ll find endemic species, such as the giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and flightless cormorants. You’ll also find endemic trees, such as the Galapagos fern tree and the cut leaf daisy. On the Galapagos Islands, you’ll also find one of the most amazing national parks in the world: the Galapagos National Park.
This archipelago of volcanic islands divides into 19 main islands and 107 rocks and islets. Of all the main islands, four of them are inhabited, and only four of them have hotels and vacation rentals. Keep in mind is that the government limits the number of visitors to the islands. So, make sure to book your reservation in advance.
Where to Stay in the Galapagos Islands
When visiting the Galapagos Islands, there are four islands tourists can choose to stay. If your main goal is to get a glimpse of the islands’ wildlife, Santa Cruz Island is the best option. There, you’ll find places like the Charles Darwin Research Center, where you can see giant tortoises. Besides, Santa Cruz Island is where the majority of the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands are located.
Isabela Island is the place for those who want to see the islands’ natural wonders. This island has not only beautiful beaches but unique lava fields and lava tunnels. Plus, it’s the biggest island of the archipelago.
The last two populated islands where you can stay are San Cristobal and Floreana Island. We recommend San Cristobal for those visiting the Galapagos Islands for the first time. Meanwhile, Floreana Island is the go-to place for a secluded vacation.
Casita de la Playa
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Situated on Isabela Island, Casita de la Playa offers modern accommodation that you’ll love. This hotel also features a beachfront location, providing breathtaking views of the ocean. This is something you can also admire from the on-site restaurant, offering delicious local cuisine. And for your convenience, each morning, complimentary breakfast is served. For lunch and dinnertime, we recommend visiting Isabella Grill located less than a mile away.
Each room has a modern design and offers all the comfort you need. Plus, all of them feature luxurious bathrooms equipped with locally made toiletries. But what makes it one of the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands is the range of rates. Whether you’re willing to splurge or not, you’ll find a room that fits your needs and preferences.
Nearby, you won’t find plenty of attractions. But that makes this hotel a great option for couples or families that want a secluded, private vacation. Even so, General Villamil Airport is only around a mile away from here.
Galapagos Sunset Hotel
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If you’re looking for a modern hotel in San Cristobal Island, this one is your best option. Galapagos Sunset Hotel is a beachfront hotel that features everything you need for the perfect vacation. On-site, you can enjoy delicious meals at Casa Blanca. And at the sun terrace, you can admire one of the most beautiful ocean views in the Galapagos Islands. And for your convenience, the hotel also features an on-site mini-market and gift shop.
Different rooms are available, but all of them provide the same luxurious experience. Each unit includes coffee machines, refrigerators, and microwaves. And depending on where they’re located in the hotel, they provide views of the ocean and city. Even better, the hotel offers different rates that adjust to everyone’s budget. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best hotels in Galapagos.
Lastly, this hotel is perfect for those who love sports, especially watersports. At an additional charge, you can go snorkeling and fishing. But if you prefer to stay water-free, you can find bike rentals nearby and explore the land at your own pace.
Hotel Acacia
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Nestled in a modern building, Hotel Acacia is one of the best options when staying in Santa Cruz Island. This 4-star hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, and a garden where you can relax and unwind. Even better, it features a spa lounge where a variety of massages and body treatments are available. And as if that were not enough, a Jacuzzi is also available.
The on-site restaurant serves English and Irish breakfast every morning. Meanwhile, during lunch and dinnertime, à la carte meals are at your disposal. But if you prefer dining out, different bars and coffee shops can be found nearby.
Rooms at the Hotel Acacia feature a tropical design that provides a cozy, fun ambient. Besides, they include balconies that face the ocean.
Now, what makes it one of the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands is its close proximity to the iconic Tortuga Bay. Located at just a couple of miles away, Galapagos Beach at Tortuga Bay is one of the top things to do in the Galapagos Islands.
Hotel Cucuve
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When visiting Puerto Ayora, Hotel Cucuve is one of the best options available for a comfortable, luxurious, yet relatively affordable stay. It features a traditional tropical design that suits your beach-getaway theme. Besides, the hotel offers an on-site coffee shop that serves not only exquisite organic coffee but a wide variety of snacks and light meals. And, despite not being a beachfront hotel, less than a mile away, you’ll find La Estación Beach and Los Alemanes Beach.
We love the hotel’s room for many reasons. First, it’s super spacious and has enough natural lighting. Secondly, it includes a minibar, a flat-screen TV, and a laptop-friendly workspace. Perfect if you need to catch up on work! And if you prefer, book a room that features a balcony. Though the hotel’s rates are not so budget-friendly, discounts are available if you book in advance.
Nearby attractions include the famous Tortuga Bay, which is around 15 minutes away. Even better, you can also go on the Bartolome Island and Sulivan Bay day-trip, which departs from Puerto Ayora.
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
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Featuring a modern outdoor pool, Ikala Galapagos Hotel is one of the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands. It’s a 4-star hotel that offers a wide variety of activities you’ll love. On-site, take classes about local culture or join the hotel’s bike tours. Or if you want more laidback activities, hang out and relax in the garden and sun terrace. Meanwhile, off-site, try different watersports, such as snorkeling, diving, and canoeing. And for those who prefer to stay water-free, off-site hiking is available, too.
The on-site restaurant serves buffet and vegetarian breakfasts, and local cuisine for lunch and dinnertime. In addition, the restaurant offers a kid-friendly menu, perfect if you’re traveling with family. For those who prefer dining out, just visit any of the nearby restaurants located less than a mile away.
Rooms at this hotel are not only modern but spacious and soundproof. Besides, they’re equipped with refrigerators, seating areas, and dressing rooms. In case you need them, both room service and wakeup service are available upon request.
Hotel La Isla
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Hotel La Isla is a beautiful 4-star hotel that’s ideal for exploring the city of Puerto Ayora. This hotel offers modern rooms with balconies that provide breathtaking views of the landscape. On top of that, each room includes safety deposit boxes, luxury bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs. However, it’s the super affordable rates that make it one of the best hotels in Galapagos. So, if you’re on a budget, this hotel is a great option.
The hotel also features an on-site restaurant that serves a continental breakfast buffet every morning. So, make sure you fuel yourself up before going out on your beach adventure. And for lunch and dinnertime, it offers international cuisine as well as special diet meals when requested. Once your stomach is full and your heart is content, head to the hotel’s terrace where you can sunbathe and enjoy the view.
Despite not being a beachfront hotel, La Estación Beach and Los Alemanes Beach are less than a mile away. It won’t take you more than 10 minutes to have your vitamin sea fixed. You can also find nearby attractions that include Tortuga Bay and the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel
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If you’re looking for the perfect hotel for a nature retreat, Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel is your best option. Just take a look at the photo below and you’ll know what we’re talking about. Surrounded by an extensive garden, this hotel offers some of the best views of both the ocean and the island’s landscape. Imagine waking up to that every morning!
Throughout the hotel, you’ll also find several hammocks where you can relax and unwind. Even better, never leave your camera behind as you can spot giant tortoises and native birds around the property, making it one of the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands.
This hotel has a convenient location in the outside of Puerto Ayora. With just a 12-minute drive, you can easily reach the island’s principal city. Its location allows you quick access to restaurants, shops, and attractions without compromising comfort. Plus, nearby islands are easy to access, including Floreana Island, one of the most remote islands in the world.
When it comes to room amenities, each unit has a traditional design and features a private balcony or terrace. Rates are higher compared to other best hotels in Galapagos, but the experience is worth it.
Royal Palm Galapagos
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For those who love natural wonders, Royal Palm Galapagos is a great choice. This hotel features lava tunnels throughout the property, providing a unique experience. You read that right! Don’t picture lava-hot tunnels, though. They’re called lava tunnels due to how they were formed. But now, they are more like caved you can spelunk under the guidance of the hotel’s staff.
Besides this awesome feature, there’s also an outdoor pool, sun terrace, and garden. In addition, the hotel has a tennis court and provides barbecue facilities. For your convenience, it also features an on-site wellness center where you can enjoy different massages, sauna sessions, and a Jacuzzi. And for those who are gym enthusiasts, a fitness center is available.
The hotel features a secluded location in Santa Cruz Island. But don’t worry about commuting from and to the airport, as a shuttle service is provided.
All of the rooms are luxurious and provide beautiful views of the garden and mountains. They’re more like cottages rather than hotel rooms. Besides, they’re equipped with kitchenettes, dining areas, and a terrace. As expected from a 4-star hotel, rates are higher but worth every cent. After all, it’s one of the best hotels in Galapagos.
Hotel Galápagos Habitat
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When it comes to beachfront hotels, Hotel Galápagos Habitat is probably the best option. Located in Santa Cruz Island, this hotel not only faces the ocean but is located on it. The hotel features a unique accommodation that offers everything you need for the perfect vacation. The rooms are stylish and provide views of the garden, landscape, and ocean. Besides, they feature minibars, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, and luxury bathrooms. What’s better, you don’t need to worry about spending extra budget as the hotel offers all-inclusive rates. Surely, this makes it one of the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands.
Activity-wise, the hotel offers different sports you can do off-site. Water enthusiasts can go snorkeling and diving. Meanwhile, those who prefer land can go cycling and hiking. On top of that, the hotel arranges transfers and excursions to other islands upon request. But if you’re interested in seeing Galapagos’ wildlife, you don’t even need to leave the hotel. Sea lions are often found lounging at the hotel’s deck!
At the on-site restaurant, you can enjoy continental breakfasts and international cuisine for lunch and dinnertime. And at the on-site bar, you can enjoy a wide variety of cocktails and beers.
The Wooden House Hotel
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The next hotel is an ideal option for those looking for a lodge hotel. The Wooden House Hotel is a beachfront hotel located in the beautiful Isabela Island. Don’t expect anything fancy or luxurious, as all of the rooms feature a traditional design and rustic décor. Different rooms with private balconies and pools are available. What’s better, each comes in low rates for all it offers, making it one of the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands.
For your entertainment, the hotel provides a wide variety of on-site activities. From horse-riding excursions to snorkeling and diving, there’s an option for everyone. Besides, there’s a bike rental service and barbecue facilities, too. In addition, it has an outdoor swimming pool open all year round.
The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious American breakfasts made with tropical fruits. And for lunch and dinnertime, it offers both local and international dishes. Even better, the restaurant has an outdoor seating area that overlooks the pool. Have a delicious meal while enjoying the view and meeting fellow travelers!
Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel
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Featuring a secluded location in Puerto Ayora, Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is the perfect place for a tranquil, private vacation. Different rooms are available, such as standard rooms and suites. However, all of them are soundproof and provide the same comfort and luxurious experience. They also feature balconies and offer beautiful views of the ocean and garden.
The hotel provides an on-site fitness center for those who don’t want to miss their workout routine. Besides, it has a wellness center that offers massages and body treatments. The spa features a Jacuzzi, too.
On-site activities include snorkeling, diving, cycling, hiking, and canoeing. And for adults, happy hour deals are available every day. Nearby, you’ll find Los Alemanes Beach and La Estación Beach. In just 15 minutes, you can reach the one and only Tortuga Bay.
As expected from a 5-star hotel, rates are higher compared to other hotels in the area. So, if you don’t mind spending some more, this hotel is an excellent choice. After all, it’s the best of the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in the Galapagos Islands:
- Isla Grill Galapagos – This restaurant serves both grill food and pizza. So, it’s perfect for a romantic date night or lunch after exploring the city.
- Cri’s Burger Factory – Sometimes you’re just in the mood for a hamburger, and Cri’s Burger Factory is the perfect place to get one. You’ll also find a wide variety of local and international beers.
- La Garrapata – From delicious seafood to exquisite pasta dishes, La Garrapata offers an option for everyone. However, it’s usually fully booked, so making a reservation in advance is your best option.
Recommended Activities in the Galapagos Islands:
- Galapagos Flash 4-Day Tour – In just four days, this tour will show you the highlights of Galapagos Island. Transportation is provided.
- Galapagos National Park – Established in 1959, it’s the country’s first national park. Here you’ll see the best of Galapagos Island’s flora and fauna.
