Photo cover credit: Jaime Trejo
Planning a trip from Los Angeles (LAX) to the Galapagos Islands? Whether you’re heading to this breathtaking destination for a luxury expedition with Ecoventura, or a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure, choosing the right flights is key.
To ensure a smooth and stress-free journey, we highly recommend arriving in Guayaquil (GYE) or Quito (UIO) on Friday, rather than Saturday before catching your Avianca flight to San Cristóbal (SCY) on Sunday morning.
Here’s why:
Flight delays happen – arriving on Friday allows extra buffer time.
You’ll be well-rested before your early Sunday flight to San Cristóbal (SCY).
Explore Ecuador – enjoy a day in Quito’s historic center or relax in Guayaquil before your cruise.
Best Flights from Los Angeles to Ecuador
Most travelers flying from Los Angeles to the Galapagos take Copa, Delta, or United Airlines to reach Ecuador. Here are (what we believe) the best flight options:
Copa Airlines (LAX → Panama City → Guayaquil)
- Flight Details: Copa Airlines offers an easy connection in Panama City (PTY).
- Example Flight: Copa CM 378 departs LAX early morning and arrives in Guayaquil at 5:32 PM.
- Why Choose This Route?
Short layover in Panama City (PTY). Early evening arrival allows time to relax before your Galapagos flight. - Alternative: You can also fly Copa to Quito (UIO), though Guayaquil is the quickest gateway for the Galapagos.
United Airlines (LAX → Houston → Quito or Guayaquil)
- Flight Details: United connects LAX → Houston (IAH) → Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE).
- Why Choose This Route?
Reliable service with direct flights to Quito or Guayaquil. Great for travelers who prefer U.S. based airlines.
Delta Airlines (LAX → Atlanta → Quito)
- Flight Details: Delta offers overnight flights from LAX → Atlanta (ATL) → Quito (UIO).
- Example Flight: Delta 632 departs Quito at 11:20 PM when returning, making it a convenient choice for round-trip travelers.
- Why Choose This Route?
Ideal for SkyMiles members and those preferring Delta. Arrives late in Quito, requiring a short overnight stay.
What to Expect on Sunday Morning
Your flight to San Cristóbal (SCY) departs early on Sunday. If you’re flying from Quito, here’s what to expect:
The flight will stop in Guayaquil for 35-40 minutes to pick up additional passengers.
You will stay on the plane during this short layover.
Arrival in the Galapagos: Once you land, the adventure begins!
Photos 1-3 credit: Brooke Pyke
Arriving in Ecuador on Friday ensures a smooth and well-prepared start to your Ecoventura cruise. By allowing extra time before your flight to the Galapagos, you can avoid unnecessary travel stress and make the most of your journey.
Not sure whether Quito or Guayaquil is the best stop on your route before the Galapagos? Read our latest guide for a breakdown of what to expect in each city to help you decide.
