One of our biggest concerns before we went was whether we could actually do and see everything we wanted to without a tour.

It seems that the islands are promoted as tour only packages that are difficult to visit without – but this is far from the reality. Listen to us when we say – you don’t need a cruise to visit the Galápagos Islands.

First of all, if you are worried about missing out on seeing all the animals the Galápagos has to offer then don’t be. The islands are so rich with land and marine life that you won’t need to book tours to see them.

Read our free activity guide on the Galápagos to see how you can see all the animals and keep yourself busy without paying for a single tour.

Paying for a week long tour on a cruise or live-aboard diving boat will set you back anywhere between £1000-£3000 at a minimum. For an example, Intrepid Travels 10 Day tour aboard a cruise ship costs over $3500 and Galapagos Last Minute 4 day Land only tours still start from the eye watering price of $750.

Secondly, if you are worried about island hopping and getting around the islands – again, don’t be.

Travelling between each island and around the islands themselves is super easy so you don’t need a package tour. All you have to do is be sure to book a space a day in advance on one of the ferries which cost $30 each.

Save the money, avoid the tours and enjoy the freedom and independence of doing it by yourself.