Galapagos Islands
Discover unique wildlife and pristine volcanic landscapes in Darwin's living laboratory
Destination Overview
The Galapagos Islands, an archipelago of volcanic islands distributed on either side of the Equator in the Pacific Ocean, constitute a province of Ecuador and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located about 1,000 km off Ecuador's coast, this remote paradise consists of 13 major islands, 6 smaller islands, and numerous islets and rocks, each with its own unique landscape and wildlife.
What makes the Galapagos truly special is its extraordinary level of endemism, with many species found nowhere else on Earth. The islands' isolation allowed wildlife to evolve with minimal human influence, resulting in species that display remarkable adaptations and, famously, little fear of humans. It was here that Charles Darwin's observations during his voyage on the HMS Beagle led to his groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection.
When to Visit
The Galapagos can be visited year-round, but there are two distinct seasons affecting wildlife activity and weather conditions. The warm season (December to May) brings higher temperatures (80-90°F), occasional brief showers, calmer seas, and clearer underwater visibility—ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The cool season (June to November) is characterized by cooler temperatures (70-75°F), misty mornings, and choppier seas but offers exceptional wildlife viewing, particularly for marine species. For specific wildlife experiences, timing is essential: albatross nesting (April to December), sea turtle nesting (January to March), blue-footed booby mating dances (June to August), and giant tortoise hatching (December to April).
Getting There
Most visitors reach the Galapagos by flying from mainland Ecuador. Regular flights operate from Quito and Guayaquil to the islands' two airports: Seymour Airport on Baltra Island (near Santa Cruz) and San Cristobal Airport. The flight takes approximately 2 hours from Guayaquil or 2.5 hours from Quito. Upon arrival, all visitors must pay a $100 Galapagos National Park entrance fee and present a Transit Control Card ($20). From the airports, visitors typically connect to their cruise ship or take public transportation to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz or Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal, the main population centers where most land-based accommodations are located.
Highlights
Giant Tortoise Reserves
Come face-to-face with the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises at breeding centers and in the wild. These ancient creatures can weigh up to 550 pounds and live for over 100 years. The Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz and the Galapaguera on San Cristobal offer opportunities to see conservation efforts in action, while highlands excursions on Santa Cruz present chances to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Marine Wonderland
Explore one of the world's most remarkable marine ecosystems, where tropical and cold-water currents converge to create an underwater paradise. The Galapagos Marine Reserve, the second-largest in the world, protects over 3,000 marine species. Snorkelers and divers can swim alongside playful sea lions, graceful sea turtles, marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, and a kaleidoscope of fish in crystal-clear waters.
Volcanic Landscapes
Witness the raw power of geology on islands formed entirely by volcanic activity. From the moonlike terrain of Bartolomé with its iconic Pinnacle Rock to the vast lava fields of Santiago and the collapsed caldera of Sierra Negra on Isabela (one of the world's largest active volcanic craters), the Galapagos offers a fascinating glimpse into Earth's geological processes. These dramatic landscapes provide stark backdrops to the vibrant wildlife scenes.
Things to Do
Island Cruising
Experience the archipelago aboard a cruise vessel, ranging from intimate yachts to larger expedition ships. Most cruises follow 4-8 day itineraries visiting multiple islands with twice-daily shore excursions led by certified naturalist guides. This mobile accommodation allows access to the more remote islands and maximizes wildlife viewing opportunities across different ecosystems.
Wildlife Observation
Embark on guided walks along marked trails to observe the islands' unique fauna in their natural habitat. The Galapagos' famously fearless wildlife allows for extraordinarily close encounters (though maintaining the mandated 2-meter distance is essential for conservation). Each island offers distinct species and landscapes, from Española's waved albatross colony to Fernandina's marine iguana aggregations.
Snorkeling & Diving
Discover the underwater magic of the Galapagos at numerous snorkeling sites accessible to all skill levels. Experienced divers can explore world-class dive sites like Gordon Rocks, Darwin Island, and Wolf Island, where encounters with schools of hammerhead sharks, whale sharks (June to November), and manta rays are possible. Even snorkelers routinely swim with sea lions, penguins, and marine iguanas.
Sea Kayaking
Paddle along shorelines and in protected bays for a peaceful, low-impact wildlife viewing experience. Kayaking offers unique perspectives of the coastal ecosystems and often allows closer approaches to wildlife than motorized boats. Many cruises offer kayaking as an activity option, while land-based visitors can arrange guided kayaking excursions from Puerto Ayora or Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Scientific Tourism
Engage with conservation efforts through visits to research stations and participation in citizen science initiatives. The Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz provides insight into breeding programs and scientific research, while some tour operators offer cruises with visiting scientists aboard. These educational experiences deepen understanding of the islands' ecological importance and conservation challenges.
Where to Stay
Boutique Island Hotels
LuxuryStay at exclusive properties like Pikaia Lodge on Santa Cruz or Golden Bay on San Cristobal, which combine environmental sensitivity with sophisticated comfort. These properties typically feature infinity pools overlooking the ocean, spa services, and fine dining using local ingredients. Most offer comprehensive packages including guided excursions to nearby visitor sites and day trips to other islands.
$300-$800 per person per night
Mid-range Cruises & Hotels
Mid-rangeChoose from quality tourist-superior class boats or comfortable hotels in Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. These options provide clean, air-conditioned accommodations with private bathrooms, reliable service, and good-quality guided experiences. For land-based visitors, these hotels typically help arrange day tours to nearby islands and visitor sites.
$150-$300 per person per night
Budget Accommodations
BudgetFind economical options in the populated centers, including family-run guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels. While more basic in amenities, these accommodations provide clean rooms and a local experience. Budget travelers typically explore the islands through day trips, public ferry services between inhabited islands, and self-guided visits to accessible sites like Tortuga Bay and Las Grietas.
$50-$150 per person per night
Travel Tips
Book Well in Advance: Visitor numbers are controlled in the Galapagos, and the best cruises and accommodations often sell out 6-12 months ahead, especially for peak periods (December-January and June-August).
Pack Appropriately: Essentials include reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, quick-dry clothing, hiking shoes, water shoes, a reusable water bottle, and motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness. A wetsuit (shortie 3mm) is recommended for snorkeling during the cool season.
Budget Adequately: The Galapagos is expensive by South American standards due to its remoteness and protected status. Beyond accommodation costs, budget for the $100 national park fee, $20 transit card, between-island transportation, equipment rentals, and meals (which are costly due to import requirements).
Respect Conservation Rules: Always maintain a 2-meter distance from wildlife, never feed animals, stay on marked trails, and follow your guide's instructions. These rules protect both the fragile ecosystem and visitor safety.
Consider Cruise vs. Land: Cruises access more remote islands and maximize viewing opportunities but can be more expensive and challenging for those prone to motion sickness. Land-based trips offer more flexibility, comfort, and local interaction but limit access to certain wildlife and landscapes.
Embark on Your Galapagos Adventure
Journey to this living laboratory of evolution and experience extraordinary wildlife encounters in one of Earth's most protected ecosystems.
Download Travel GuideSubscribe to Our Newsletter
Stay updated with our latest travel guides, tips, and exclusive offers.