The captivating beauty of the Galapagos Islands makes it an archipelago like no other. This remote paradise in the Pacific Ocean offers a blend of unique landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and extraordinary wildlife. Things to do are endless, including scuba diving with hammerhead sharks, snorkeling with seals, and hiking through ancient lava fields. Don’t miss out on exploring the islands’ pristine beaches, awe-inspiring volcanic formations, and getting close to native wildlife such as blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and penguins.
Visit the Galapagos Islands during the dry season, from June to December, for optimal wildlife and marine life sightings. This period offers pleasant weather, calmer seas, and excellent visibility for underwater exploration. It’s also the breeding season for many endemic species, including albatrosses, and migration time for humpback whales. The rainy season lasts from January through May, and brings occasional showers but lusher landscapes.
Exploring the Galapagos Islands is primarily done by boat. Multi-day cruises and guided tours on local boats known as pangas are popular options, as they allow you to explore multiple islands and enjoy expert-led excursions. These guided tours are essential to ensure compliance with conservation regulations and maximize your wildlife encounters. When on dry land, the islands themselves are highly walkable and easy to navigate. Public transportation options are limited, however, taxis and bicycle rentals are available in some areas.
Get a taste of Galapagos history on a day tour from Puerto Ayora to Floreana Island. In addition to boasting a wide range of wildlife, this often-overlooked island is home to Post Office Bay. As far back as the 18th-century, whalers and sailors would leave letters in a barrel at this location, and passing ships would pick up and deliver the mail to its intended recipients. This tradition continues today, and you can still leave postcards or letters in the barrel, hoping that fellow travelers will hand-deliver them.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone GALT (UTC -5) | Country Code +593 | Language(s) Spanish | Attractions 17 | Tours 155 | Reviews 983 |
The Galapagos Islands are renowned for their unparalleled biodiversity and landscapes. Noted for inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, today, they serve as the world’s ultimate wildlife-watching destination. From giant tortoises to marine iguanas, the islands harbor species found nowhere else on Earth.
...MoreThe Galapagos Islands belong to the Republic of Ecuador. They’re located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) from the country’s mainland, and can only be reached by plane from Quito or Guayaquil. Ecuador governs and protects the archipelago with continual conservation efforts and scientific research.
...MoreBefore traveling to the Galapagos Islands, you must apply for a Transit Control Card (TCT) on the Gobierno del Ecuador website, then collect it at the airport in Guayaquil or Quito. Upon arrival, you must pay an entrance fee in cash to the Galapagos National Park: US$100 for adults and US$50 for children.
...MoreYes, the Galapagos Islands offer opportunities to swim with various shark species, including hammerhead sharks, white-tip reef sharks, and Galapagos sharks. Join a guided snorkeling or scuba diving tour to explore their underwater world safely. First-time divers can take certification courses. Some dive shops may require PADI-certified divers to show their membership cards.
...MoreYes, absolutely. The Galapagos Islands offer plenty of activities and attractions for travelers young and old. Children can observe giant tortoises up close, snorkel with vibrant sea life, and get an unrivaled educational experience. Family-friendly cruises and guided tours cater to all age groups. For a more personalized experience, take a private tour.
...MoreThe best way to see the wildlife in the Galapagos is by joining guided land-based tours or multi-day cruises. These expert-led excursions allow you to responsibly witness the diverse wildlife and learn about their behaviors. These excursions fill up fast, so booking a tour in advance is recommended.
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