GALAPAGOS ISLANDS HONEYMOON
Vows have been lovingly exchanged. The bride has been kissed. The champagne is flowing. It’s finally official, you’re man and wife!
Now comes the first step of your married journey together – your honeymoon! The first real chance to enjoy some quality time with the love of your life.
A honeymoon is the ultimate “once in a lifetime” vacation. The memories and photos will forever tell the story of your first married adventure together. So, it’s only natural that everything has to be just perfect.
The world is a big place, full of amazing honeymoon destinations, and you’ll only get the chance to do this once. Popular haunts like Tahiti, Hawaii, Maldives, Italy, Greece, and the Caribbean are all deserving of consideration. But, for a truly unique, bucket-list destination, look no further than a Galapagos Islands Honeymoon!
What makes the choice of a Galapagos honeymoon so perfect? Few other places on the planet can compete with its unique landscapes and wildlife. Throw into the mix a splash of romance and fine dining. Imagine a customizable mix of relaxing and adventure activities to keep you entertained. Did we mention the magnificent golden sunsets and white sand beaches? Oh, and cute animals, there are lots of irresistible sea lions and penguins. Yes, a Galapagos Islands Honeymoon ticks all of the right boxes!
Keep reading for all of our top tips to turn your dream Galapagos Islands Honeymoon into reality. We’ll cover everything you need to plan the perfect Galapagos honeymoon vacation with your soulmate.
How To Plan Your Dream Honeymoon in Galapagos
So, you’ve taken the decision to spend your honeymoon in the Galapagos Islands. What are the next steps to make it happen?
Start by choosing your own travel style. There are different ways to visit the Galapagos, something for every taste and desire.
Firstly, take a read through our Galapagos Cruise vs. Land Tour blog. This is an important decision that you definitely want to get right. The correct answer will depend on your personal preferences. What type of Galapagos Islands Honeymoon do you have in mind?
If your goal is a complete experience, covering as many islands and as much wildlife as possible … then we recommend a Galapagos Cruise.
If you prefer more freedom and flexibility to create your own adventures, with free time to do your own thing … then a Galapagos Land Tour may be the better choice.
There are also a couple of great Galapagos Resorts available for an all-inclusive Galapagos honeymoon.
So, let’s walk through the details of each choice in turn…
1. Galapagos Honeymoon Cruises
No doubt about it, cruising conjures up romantic honeymoon images, and has always been a popular choice. There’s just something special about the romance of the open ocean. Sipping sunset cocktails together on a private balcony. Docking someplace new each day for fresh adventures. What’s not to love?
The good news is that many of the top-end Galapagos catamarans like Ocean Spray and Celebrity Exploration offer the perfect setting for your Galapagos honeymoon. Onboard amenities include an outdoor jacuzzi, al fresco dining, luxurious suites with private balconies, and comfortable sundeck loungers to relax in downtime. It’s even possible to sail on the official yacht that was used by Princess Grace on her Galapagos Islands honeymoon! Now that would be a story to tell!
For honeymooners on a tighter budget, the Archipel or EcoGalaxy II are excellent choices. While you save $$$ on comfort, the wildlife cruise experience is much the same as on more expensive yachts.
Whatever you desire, our expert staff will be delighted to help you find the right yacht and itinerary, for an unforgettable Galapagos honeymoon cruise.
2. Land Tour Galapagos Honeymooning
A land tour honeymoon in the Galapagos is a very different experience from the cruise option.
For starters, you can customize your very own Galapagos honeymoon itinerary – something truly unique for such a special trip. Blend your own perfect mix of wildlife, adventure, relaxation, and romance.
On a Galapagos land tour, it's easy for newlyweds to escape the crowds. Many visitor sites can be visited alone, just the two of you, or together with a private guide if you prefer. You'll enjoy plenty of freedom to enjoy quality time together. It’s also easy to dine out along the waterfront in the evenings. Life never gets boring, as you island-hop to the next destination.
An added bonus is that Galapagos land tours are often more friendly to your wallet than a cruise. Of course, the Galapagos Islands boasts some wonderful high-end hotels, as well as more affordable, cozy accommodation choices. The choice is always yours.
To get a better idea, check out our popular land tour itineraries, Galapagos Explorer and Galapagos Adventurer. both would be wonderful for a Galapagos Islands Honeymoon. Don't forget, everything is flexible and can be customized to suit your needs. Just tell us your honeymoon dream, and we'll make it happen.
3. Galapagos Honeymoon Resorts
For loving couples looking for something more traditional, a Galapagos Honeymoon Resort Package might be just the thing. Spend more time lounging at the pool, and enjoying luxurious surroundings, mixed together with some excursions when the mood fits.
Our favorite choice is a Pikaia Galapagos honeymoon. Boasting the official Relais & Chateaux stamp of quality, Pikaia Lodge is the most exclusive lodging on the islands. You’ll even cross paths with giant Galapagos tortoises roaming the 31-hectare private reserve. Perched on the edge of an extinct volcanic crater, the panoramic views are simply stunning, and floor-to-ceiling windows allow honeymooners to enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of their own terrace. For pampering, look no further than Pikaia’s infinity pool and sun deck, or book a massage treatment at their renowned wellness center.
A close second comes Finch Bay Hotel. Located on a secluded bay, Galapagos honeymooners can choose between the stunning pool or cozy beach to catch some rays. The natural setting and ocean views do not disappoint, neither does the fresh cuisine served daily at the restaurant.
Why a Galapagos Honeymoon Is The Perfect Choice
When it comes to honeymooning, the Galapagos islands have everything covered for newlyweds! Let’s find out why…
1. Natural Beauty
“Let’s travel together and get lost in beautiful places!”
For the big honeymoon trip, most couples want to spend their time in a place of extreme natural beauty. Picture a remote island in the middle of the ocean with a panoramic vista. Waves crash on a white sand beach, while a dreamy sunset paints the sky. Dolphins and sea lions frolic playfully, swimming rings around sea turtles. Inland, inviting lush tropical forests beg to be explored, while volcanoes smolder in the background.
As a recognized UNESCO Natural Heritage Site, rest assured that the Galapagos Islands have you covered on all the above & more. From pristine beaches with crystalline waters to fertile green highlands and jet-black lava rocks, the Galapagos has many natural wonders to explore. The natural palette of striking color contrasts really makes Galapagos honeymoon photos pop!
It’s no coincidence that the archipelago has been featured so many times on NATGEO and the Discovery Channel. Now it’s your turn to create your very own romantic documentary, the happy couple in this place of stunning natural beauty!
2. Unique memories
“Live for moments you can’t put into words.”
There’s no denying that the Galapagos Islands are a truly unique travel destination. Nowhere else on the planet compares. So, if it’s lifetime memories you’re after, the Galapagos comes out top of the list.
What is it that makes a Galapagos Islands honeymoon so different?
Where else can visitors find penguins on the equator, tortoises that grow into giants, and birds that have forgotten how to fly? The amazing animals of this remote archipelago, have adapted and evolved in surprising ways. The result is a long list of endemic creatures, that exist uniquely at Galapagos.
Even more remarkable is the fact that Galapagos birds and animals have almost no fear of humans. So, lucky honeymooners enjoy an unbeatable, up-close wildlife experience!
Even the very islands themselves were born of fiery passion, from volcanic eruptions under the ocean. Today, these other-worldly landscapes are simply breathtaking.
So, for a truly “once in a lifetime”, unique honeymoon destination, Galapagos guarantees unbelievable stories to tell to your future kids and grandchildren.
3. Fairytale Romance
“When he doesn’t just call you princess, but also treats you like one.”
Love is in the air! Whether taking a long stroll along the beach or catching a magical sunset together, the islands provide the perfect backdrop for honeymoon romance and passion.
What’s more, you’ll be sharing Galapagos with hundreds of thousands of amorous bird and animal couples. Blue-footed boobies are renowned for their courtship rituals and funny dancing. The Galapagos waved albatross mates for life, touching beaks tenderly together to show affection, even after decades of married life. Even the famous giant tortoises and Darwin Finches are at it, wooing potential mates to start families together. There must be something special in the Galapagos air!
Galapagos Honeymooners seeking privacy won’t be disappointed. Long stretches of pristine Galapagos sand are often secluded, with just sea lions and marine iguanas for company. As the sun goes down on another unforgettable day, sip a tropical cocktail or glass of wine, safe in the knowledge that tomorrow is another day in paradise.
4. Rest & Relaxation
“Love is someone to share Paradise with.”
After all the stress of marriage planning, every happy couple has surely earned the right to some R&R. Time to kick back, put your feet up, and enjoy some quality time together.
The pace of Galapagos life is so relaxed that most visitors slip straight into the laid-back vibe. Most higher-end hotels offer excellent pools and loungers, many yachts are equipped with an onboard jacuzzi, and spa treatments are available for an extra level of pampering.
Equally important, Happy Gringo Travel removes all stress of hassle from your Galapagos honeymoon. We take care of all the small but important details, which means you can focus on sharing paradise with your soulmate.
5. Adventures of a lifetime
“As soon as I saw you, I knew a grand adventure was about to happen.”
The Galapagos Islands are not your typical honeymoon destination. Yes, newlyweds can chill out and rub tanning oil onto one another at the pool. But the islands are so much more than just relaxation. There are also grand adventures to be had in these parts!
In the sea, Galapagos snorkeling is truly world-class. As well as colorful fish, snorkelers can share the water with playful sea lions, curious sea turtles, docile reef sharks, and with luck even penguins. Even bigger treats await scuba divers, with hammerheads and huge whale sharks migrating through Galapagos waters. SUP paddle boarding and kayaking are other great ways to get closer to marine creatures.
On land, hike together along volcanic trails and across lava fields. Visit giant tortoise breeding programs to learn about the important Galapagos conservation projects that protect the unique wildlife. Or jump on a mountain bike to explore a coastal trail, or head up into the lush highland forests.
For intrepid explorers, it’s impossible to be bored – a Galapagos Islands Honeymoon has so much waiting to be discovered!
6. Fine Cuisine
“Food brings people together on many different levels. It’s nourishment of the soul and body: it’s truly love.”
If the way to one’s heart is through the stomach, then fine cuisine must be paramount to the honeymoon experience.
At Galapagos, fresh seafood is never far from your plate, as chefs pick up the catch of the day at the local fishermen’s market. Complemented with organic veggies, most meals are light, refreshing, and delicious. As well as typical international dishes, menus offer traditional Ecuadorian recipes for adventurous souls who like to try something new.
You’ll also never be far from an oceanfront bar, whether in the charming small Galapagos towns or aboard your cruise ship. Nothing beats a freshly mixed tropical cocktail whilst enjoying a glorious sunset. Life is great!
Whatever your dreams and desires, the first step is to reach out and CONTACT US. Our team of Galapagos destination experts will listen to all of your ideas, and help to custom-make the unforgettable honeymoon you dare to imagine!
Top Tips For Galapagos Islands Honeymoon Planning
Planning your honeymoon is an exciting part of your wedding plans. But it can also be a cause of considerable stress. Check out our top tips to make Galapagos honeymoon planning as smooth as possible.
- Plan your Galapagos Honeymoon together. Your first married trip together will be successful only if both husband and wife are involved in trip planning. Two heads are better than one when it comes to getting your creative juices flowing. For a perfectly balanced trip, include ideas from both sides. We also recommend sharing the tasks involved with booking the trip.
- Plan & book early. Most engaged couples experience enough anxiety with wedding plans as the big day looms closer, so why add honeymoon stress to the mix? By planning the honeymoon trip early, couples can focus more on wedding day details. You’ll also be able to guarantee that dream suite or cruise cabin, without the risk of missing out.
- Choose the right type of Galapagos Island Honeymoon. As discussed above, Galapagos cruises are very different from land tours and resort packages. So, consider carefully which trip style is the right experience for your Galapagos Honeymoon.
- Pre-plan your trip budget. Another early step in honeymoon planning is to agree on a trip budget. Trip costs can quickly spiral out of control without careful planning, so be sure to agree on a budget that both of you are comfortable with in advance. A honeymoon trip doesn’t have to be a huge splurge, but neither will you want to skimp on important details.
- Find the right balance of activities. The Galapagos islands offer both relaxation and adventure, the trick is to find the right blend of each to keep you both happy. Also, don’t forget to include enough leisure days, allowing flexibility and downtime with one other.
- When to travel? The good news is that the Galapagos Islands are a year-round travel destination. There is no best or worst month to visit. The weather is always agreeably pleasant, and the amazing wildlife never rests. Check out our Galapagos Weather blog post for more detailed information about temperatures, rainfall, and typical animal behavior through each month of the year.
- Use a trustworthy and knowledgeable agent. Getting help from experts will remove much of the stress from trip planning, as well as guaranteeing a hassle-free honeymoon in the Galapagos. Happy Gringo Travel has been helping happy couples to book their dream honeymoon vacation since 2004, so you know you’ll be in safe hands.
- Search out romantic accommodations. A careful hotel selection can turn a good Galapagos honeymoon into an unforgettable one. Look for boutique hotels with special, romantic suites, or cruise cabins with private balconies for a truly extraordinary honeymoon experience.
- Plan a surprise. A carefully planned surprise for your partner can make your dream Galapagos honeymoon that extra bit special. Whether it’s a romantic candle-lit dinner by the beach, or a bouquet of flowers with champagne waiting in your suite, no detail is too much. We are only too happy to help create a secret experience to surprise your better half.
- Take a good camera. The magical photo opportunities at the archipelago are endless. Be sure to bring a good camera along to capture all the best moments, and pack extra memory cards too – trust us, you’ll need them.
- Other useful Galapagos Honeymoon information. For more sources of useful Galapagos information, check out: the Complete Galapagos Travel Guide, Getting to the Galapagos, Galapagos Islands map, Galapagos packing list, and Galapagos Marine Reserve.
Looking for more food for thought? It’s easy to combine a honeymoon in Galapagos with some days in mainland Ecuador too – check out some ideas in our Ecuador honeymoon post. For a more expansive trip, how about visiting more countries on a South American honeymoon? For example, we can help you to visit both Galapagos and Machu Picchu together in a single trip, for an epic double tick to your honeymoon bucket list.
In conclusion, a honeymoon in Galapagos is the perfect choice for your first big trip together. The archipelago is both an exclusive and exotic destination, with unique touches that nowhere else on the planet can match. For natural beauty and amazing wildlife, Galapagos ticks all the right boxes. The potential for both adventure and relaxation promises to keep newlyweds entertained. Of course, romance and passion are never far away … may the honeymoon never end!
