galapagos islands can you visit

Galápagos Conservancy

Planning a Trip to Galápagos

The Galápagos Islands are governed by a Special Law that supports conservation and the preservation of its unique environment. The Galápagos Governing Council is responsible for the overall management of the Archipelago, working to ensure a balance between the populated areas and protected areas. For this reason, the movement of visitors and inhabitants in and out of the Islands requires careful management.

Traveling to Galápagos

What documents do I need to travel to Galápagos?

Most visitors will travel to Galápagos by air from mainland Ecuador. Flights depart daily from the principal cities of Guayaquil or Quito (direct or via Guayaquil). Three companies currently offer flights: TAME, LAN-Ecuador, and Avianca. Airfares are similar between the companies, but you may get lucky and find a promotional offer. In general, you should expect to pay between $380 and $500 for a round-trip ticket. Non-residents cannot buy a one-way ticket to Galápagos.

There are two main airports in Galápagos, one on Baltra Island and the other on San Cristóbal. At the airport in mainland Ecuador before checking in, you will be required to have your bags inspected by the Galápagos Biosecurity Agency quarantine staff and obtain a mandatory $20 tourist transit card. Upon arrival in Galápagos, you will have to pay an entrance fee  in cash  to the Galápagos National Park (currently $100 for non-Ecuadorian adults and $50 for children). Returning to the US or other international destination from Galápagos generally requires an overnight stay in either Quito or Guayaquil.

Choosing a Time of Year

Galápagos is a terrific place to visit anytime of the year. Because of the Islands’ location on the equator, the air and water temperatures remain relatively stable all year long. During peak seasons (mid-June through early September, and mid-December through mid-January), it is particularly important to make your travel arrangements well in advance.

From December through May, the water temperature (avg. 76°F/25°C) and air temperature (avg. low/high 72-86°F/22-30°C) are slightly warmer. Seas tend to be calmer. Rainfalls are common for a short period of time each day, but the remainder of the day tends to be very sunny resulting in high humidity. Flowers come into bloom and vegetation is more colorful. This is a good time to observe birds mating or sea turtles nesting on the beaches.

From June through November, the Humboldt Current brings colder water (avg. 72°F/22°C) and cooler land temperatures (avg. low/high 66-79°F/19-26°C) It also brings nutrient-rich water that attracts fish and sea birds: albatross arrive on Española and penguins are easier to encounter. This is the mating season for blue-footed boobies. During this time of year clouds fill the sky and a misty rain called Garua is common. Winds tend to be stronger and seas a bit rougher. The abundant marine life makes this the preferred time of year for experienced divers.

Cruises vs. Hotels and Day Trips

One can visit Galápagos on a live-aboard experience lasting from 4 days/3 nights to 12 days/11 nights. Boats range from 12–110 passengers and are divided into four categories of service: economy, tourist, first class, and luxury. Cruise itineraries take advantage of night hours to travel long distances between islands to arrive at the next visitor site refreshed and ready to explore. Groups of 12 or more might want to consider chartering an entire boat. This approach can be less expensive per person than joining an organized tour, and can provide opportunities for customization of the tour.

Another option is to stay ashore in a hotel on one of the larger populated islands (Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, or Isabela) and take day trips to nearby uninhabited islands. Visitors take speed boats or public transportation between inhabited islands, staying overnight at hotels and exploring local sites and enjoying activities near the towns. Day trips are most often arranged from San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz, but also from the less populated islands of Floreana and Isabela where lodging is more limited. While this option can be more economical and provides an interesting perspective for travelers, the range of islands and variety of wildlife that can be visited is more limited.

Day trip operators range widely in comfort and safety standards, and it will be important to choose a reputable tour provider. There are many providers to choose from, and we recommend that you visit our  Travel Partners page for a list of our trusted providers.

Visitor Sites and Guides

Ninety-five percent of the land area of Galápagos is designated as protected by the Galápagos National Park Directorate (GNPD), and tourists are permitted to explore specific visitor sites only with Park-certified naturalist guides. The GNPD coordinates group visits to these 60+ sites and carefully monitors ecological conditions. Different sites are known for their specific scenery, vegetation, and wildlife. However, many species, such as sea lions, marine iguanas, lava lizards, and a variety of coastal birds such as herons, tattlers, plovers, turnstones, and whimbrels, are commonly seen at most locations.

Each visitor site has a marked trail, most of which are less than a mile long — often passing over rough lava or uneven boulders. Some sites have “wet landings” (visitors wade to shore from rafts or dinghies) and others have “dry landings” (passengers step foot directly onto dry land). All live-aboard cruises and reputable day-tour outfitters employ licensed guides who must accompany travelers to these sites.

Diving in Galápagos

Galápagos is a world-class destination for scuba divers because of the abundance of sharks, sea lions, fur seals, marine turtles, rays, mantas, marine iguanas, and reef fishes. The GNPD has granted permission to a select number of tour providers. If you plan to dive on your trip, check with your provider to make sure the company is authorized to offer this activity. 

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The Ultimate Galápagos Islands Travel Guide

Discover the islands that inspired Charles Darwin.

The Galápagos Islands, located roughly 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, remained a closely guarded natural secret for millions of years. Over that time, the archipelago evolved into a home for an all-star cast of plants and animals. Sometime in the 1800s, some swashbuckling pirates and intrepid explorers started arriving in the Galápagos Islands. The most famous early visitor was Charles Darwin, a young naturalist who spent 19 days studying the islands' flora and fauna in 1835. In 1859, Darwin published On the Origin of Species , which introduced his theory of evolution — and the Galápagos Islands — to the world.

Since then, word of these islands and their magnificent beauty has steadily grown. In 1959, the Galápagos became Ecuador's first national park, and in 1978, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site . Today, more than 275,000 people visit the Galápagos every year to see those incredible animals and landscapes for themselves.

As amazing as you think the Galápagos Islands will be, they routinely exceed expectations. It's a place where lizards swim, birds walk, and humans — for once — don't take center stage.

Reasons to Visit

Biodiversity brings over 100,000 visitors each year to these remote islands that were totally unknown to the world until 1535. Without the influence of a human presence, the island's flora and fauna, and the surrounding marine life, thrived for thousands of years by evolving into unique species you won't find anywhere else in the world, such as the charismatic giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies. Beyond seeing the main stars of the island, many visitors also enjoy the beautiful beaches and choose the Galápagos Islands as their honeymoon destination .

This is also one of the world's top scuba diving destinations, so spending time on or in the water is a must, whether that means you're ready to jump in with your snorkel for a sea lion swim or are happy to enjoy the views from the deck of your adventure cruise . Brimming with natural beauty, the Galápagos is for many a once-in-a-lifetime destination where the marvels of the natural world are waiting to astound you.

Best Time to Visit

There's no bad time to visit the Galápagos Islands. No matter what time of year you go, the adventure is sure to be unique and wonderful. June through December are the cooler and drier months. Even though this is the dry season, a garúa (or light, misty rain) is still possible, particularly in December, and skies can be cloudy and gray.

January through May are the warmer and wetter months, but the rain creates brilliantly clear blue skies between showers — great for photography. March and April tend to be the hottest and wettest months, while August tends to be the coolest time.

Water temperatures vary throughout the year because of the powerful ocean currents in the archipelago. Between June and December, the colder currents dominate and the water temperature dips low. A wet suit (likely provided by your boat or hotel) may be required while snorkeling during these months. However, the upside is that the cold current brings in huge quantities of plankton, which attract hungry marine life.

If you're set on seeing a particular species in the Galápagos, talk to the tour operator and pick the month and itinerary that will give you the best chance for a sighting. Some species are seasonal, and many exist only on specific islands. For example, the waved albatross, also called the Galápagos albatross, is not a full-time resident. These birds just show up for mating in the spring and summer.

How to Get There

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Flights to the Galápagos Islands depart multiple times each day from Quito or Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador. Flights from the U.S. are plentiful to both cities. Hotel options are better in Quito and, in general, this city is more compelling with a stunning colonial center, which was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978. It's also home to ample museums, shopping, and restaurants to easily fill a few days. However, Quito is over 9,000 feet above sea level, so altitude can be a problem for travelers arriving from lower elevations. Steamy Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city, is at sea level, so altitude is not an issue. However, the hotel and restaurant selection is much more limited in Guayaquil.

If you're booking your own flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos Islands, remember that there are two airports on two different islands in the archipelago. San Cristóbal Airport is on the island of the same name. Seymour Airport, which runs entirely on sun and wind power, can be found on tiny Baltra Island, which is separated from Santa Cruz Island by a narrow channel. Be sure to book your flights to the same island you'll be based on, or where your boat departs and returns.

By Land or By Sea

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The first decision you have to make when visiting the Galápagos Islands is also the most difficult. Do you want to stay in a hotel on one of the three inhabited islands, exploring other islands and areas via day-trip boat rides? Or do you want to be based on a live-aboard boat, which provides accommodations and transportation from island to island? There are three main factors to consider when choosing between land and sea: cost, time management, and access.

A trip to the Galápagos Islands can be pricey. However, it's easier to craft a less expensive experience if you choose to be land based. These days, there are hotels and restaurants at many price points on San Cristóbal Island, Santa Cruz Island, and, to a much lesser extent, Isabela and Floreana Islands. Live-aboard boats come in a range of price points, too. However, all but the most bare-bones boats still add up to more than a land-based vacation.

If you choose a land-based vacation, expect to spend a lot of time getting from your hotel onto a boat, out to the day's destination, then back to your property. On the other hand, live-aboard boats do most of their navigating during the night when travelers are asleep in cabins on board. This means passengers wake up in a new destination ready for a full day of exploration. Because land-based explorations are limited to the five islands that can be reached in one day, travelers won't be able to visit the more distant islands that boat-based itineraries include.

Unless you're terrified of sailing, suffer from seasickness , or hate the idea of being on a boat for a week, book a cruise. You'll waste less time running back and forth, plus you'll see as many distinct areas of the Galápagos Islands as possible.

Most live-aboard boats offer five- to eight-day itineraries, with set departure dates and routes. Routes are dictated by Galápagos National Park officials to mitigate crowding and environmental stress. Your boat will provide a northern or southern itinerary (sometimes called eastern and western itineraries), alternating weekly. Both include wonderful land excursions, plenty of time in the water, and ample opportunities to see the famous flora and fauna of the Galápagos.

Boats in the Galápagos Islands are limited to a maximum of 100 passengers, but most carry fewer than that. The benefit of traveling on a smaller-capacity vessel is a more intimate onboard experience and faster transfer times between your main vessel and the rubber dinghies. Smaller boats also tend to have more character and history. And if you're traveling with a big group, don't worry, as larger-capacity boats tend to have more onboard services, like guest lectures and medical facilities.

Ecoventura , which has several vessels that allow for up to 20 passengers at a time, is another excellent operator. In addition, two naturalists take guests onshore and explain every animal and plant in great detail.

Scuba divers who want to focus on underwater adventures have a few options in the Galápagos Islands as well. The Galapagos Sky , Galapagos Aggressor III , and Galapagos Master are live-aboard boats that were designed specifically for scuba divers. They ply the waters all the way to the little-visited northernmost islands in the archipelago, where deep, cold, current-filled diving yields time with manta rays, whale sharks, sunfish, and hammerhead sharks. Note that these are for experienced divers only.

Best Hotels and Resorts

A wide range of hotels can be found on Santa Cruz Island and San Cristóbal Island, and several boats operate out of harbors on those islands as well. Be sure to book a hotel that's located near the harbor (not in the highlands), so you can be close to the boat's boarding spot for day trips.

For example, the 19-room Golden Bay Galapagos is situated right on the harbor of San Cristóbal Island. You can watch sea lions cavort on a small beach directly in front of the property, and day-trip boats leave from a dock that's no more than a three-minute stroll away. Book the corner suite, which features a living-room bathtub and glass walls that slide open to eliminate all barriers between you and the nature outside. Meanwhile, the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn is right on Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. The hotel's newest room has been cleverly fashioned inside a beached wooden boat.

Or, book a hotel that owns and operates its own boats to ensure a seamless standard of service and the most practical and convenient itineraries. For example, the unparalleled Pikaia Lodge , located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, has its own boat that is used exclusively for guests on packages that include land and sea adventures.

The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel , set in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, also has its own yacht, dubbed the Sea Lion . This vessel can hold up to 20 passengers plus two guides (many other day-trip boats carry 16 passengers and have just one guide). Sea Lion itineraries also encompass all five islands that day-trip boats are allowed to visit.

Last-minute deals are sometimes available for travelers who can afford to spend a few days searching for sales after arriving. However, the Galápagos Islands are a major tourist destination, so it's advisable to book well in advance. Dive boats, in particular, tend to fill up fast because there are so few of them.

If you are spending the night in Quito or Guayaquil, there are a few nice hotels that we also recommend checking out. In Quito, Casa Gangotena , on Plaza San Francisco in the heart of the capital's colonial center, is the best hotel in Ecuador, combining history, style, and service. Another top option is Illa Experience Hotel , a 10-room boutique hotel in the city's central San Marcos neighborhood. The property sits in a renovated mansion, and each floor presents different decor, including colonial, republic, and contemporary styles. In Guayaquil, Hotel del Parque , located in the city's leafy Parque Histórico, is a sophisticated boutique property with 44 rooms. The restored building dates back to 1891, and houses a spa where you can book a massage in a repurposed church bell tower.

Best Restaurants

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As you can imagine, the seafood in the Galápagos Islands is extremely fresh and the islands have many fine dining establishments to cater to hungry visitors. You'll find a range of dining options across all the islands' main hubs, many of which are associated with hotels, such as the Finch Bay Restaurant in Santa Cruz, which blends local Ecuadorian cuisine with international style. Another popular restaurant is the FraFre GastroBar , where the fish is served with a regional flair that's popular among locals and tourists. You'll also find more casual eateries like the humorously named Booby Trap that serves up fish tacos and pizza on Isabela Island alongside wonderful oceanfront views.

If you are looking for a memorable meal in Quito, Zazu is the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant in Ecuador. For a more casual experience, head to sibling restaurant Zfood , where a Hamptons-style fish-shack vibe is replicated perfectly and seafood reigns supreme. At Urko , chef/owner Daniel Maldonado stays focused on showcasing Ecuadorian ingredients and flavors. Go for the tasting menu to get a full sense of what he calls cocina local .

Things to Do

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Aside from observing the fabulous animals above and below the water, you can incorporate many other striking landscapes into your adventures. If you want to island-hop, you can coordinate visits to these sites yourself, but if you're on a cruise you may have to follow the pre-planned itinerary.

Throughout the islands you can enjoy the white sands of beaches like Tortuga Bay and Puerto Villamil, or take the adventurous route for a hike to the top of the Sierra Negra Volcano, an active shield volcano that last erupted in 2018, providing a dazzling show for offshore boaters. For something more tame, you can pay your respects at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, which has been used as a scientific base since 1964. Visitors can access the exhibition hall, gardens, and public library.

Best Islands to Visit

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There are 127 islands that make up this tropical archipelago, but only about 20 are frequently visited by tourists, and only four have major populations. Isabela Island is the largest of these, but despite its size, it has fewer people than Santa Cruz, which is the most populated island with approximately 12,000 inhabitants between the towns of Puerto Ayora and Santa Rosa. When you fly into the Galápagos, you will most likely arrive through Baltra Island, which is separated from Santa Cruz by a short ferry ride. Meanwhile, the province's capital is located on San Cristobal Island.

Booking a live-aboard boat trip will give you more opportunities to see the many different islands that make up these enchanted isles. However, if a particular attraction or animal captures your attention, you may want to seek out specific sites like Bartolomé Island, known for its volcanic rock formations like Pinnacle Rock, and Española Island, where you'll find the nesting sites of the waved albatross at Punta Suarez. If you're interested in the history of human discovery, Floreana Island was the first to be visited by people. Here, you can hear the stories of the many seamen who rolled into these waters and learn about the fascinating postal system they set up using a simple wooden barrel. Bird-watchers are especially fond of Genovesa Island, where frigatebirds and red-footed boobies are frequently spotted. For Galápagos penguins and flightless cormorants, the sparsely vegetated Fernandina Island is another popular spot.

Packing Tips

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A trip to the Galápagos is a big adventure, so you should come prepared with the right clothes and tools to face the elements. It may be tough to find what you need once you arrive on the islands — especially if you are spending most of your time at sea — so we've broken it down into essential categories and created a packing list to get you started.

Basic supplies are available at small shops on both San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz islands, but prices are high and the selection is limited. It's best to have the essentials with you. These include sturdy closed-toe walking shoes with durable soles. Although land excursions are generally short and trails tame, you may be walking over jagged volcanic rock and other obstacles from time to time. However, you will also want sandals or flip-flops to wear in towns and on boats. Leave the heels at home, especially if you've booked a boat-based itinerary. Even the most luxurious boats have narrow, steep stairways that are nearly impossible to navigate safely (or gracefully) in heels.

You'll also be glad to have rain gear and good weather protection for your camera. You will be traveling on boats and in dinghies, and rain showers can occur at any time. If you're exploring an island when wet weather rolls in, there will be no place to shelter out of the rain.

Health and Comfort

Stock up on lots of insect repellant and water-resistant, high-SPF sunscreen. As you might have guessed Ecuador is on the equator, which magnifies the strength of the rays, and most Galápagos excursions are completely exposed to the sun. We also recommend purchasing reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the coral, animals, and waters around the islands. A hat with a brim for sun protection during land excursions is also recommended. If you're planning to participate in kayaking and snorkeling excursions, a rash guard is also useful for sun protection. When water temperatures are colder, a wet suit will be provided. If you have fins, a mask, and a snorkel that you love, bring them with you. Snorkeling gear is provided, but the quality and cleanliness vary.

Seas are generally calm, and boat captains take great care in choosing protected anchoring spots. However, if you're prone to motion sickness, bring some Dramamine with you. Prescription preventions like scopolamine patches work well, too. Note that scopolamine is generally not available for sale in Latin America. Bring a reusable water bottle , so you can fill it up for day-long excursions and reduce your plastic waste.

There are ATMs on Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal islands, but they can run out of cash, so bring some with you to cover tips. Credit cards are also often accepted at shops and restaurants. The official currency of Ecuador is the U.S. dollar.

What Not to Bring

The introduction of non-native plant species is considered a top environmental threat to the Galápagos Islands, so do not bring any fruits, vegetables, or plants of any kind with you. Anything that might have seeds or spores clinging to it, such as the soles of your shoes and any outdoor gear or camping equipment, should be washed and inspected thoroughly before being brought to the islands. The threat of invasive plant species is so great that visitors arriving in the Galápagos have to sign an affidavit swearing that they're not bringing in any food, animals, seeds, or dirty camping gear.

In 2012, Ecuador's then-president Rafael Correa abolished fees at national parks and reserves in the country. However, Galápagos National Park was not part of that exemption and still requires a $100 entrance fee per person, which is payable only in cash upon arrival at either airport in the Galápagos Islands. In addition, each visitor must buy a $20 transit card, which is also payable only in cash at the airport. The transit card is a measure of immigration control, so all visitors must purchase one at the airport when they arrive and return it when they leave. If you are booked on a tour, your tour operator might take care of this for you, but it's better to ask ahead of time.

Before Visiting the Galápagos Islands

With the anticipation building for your trip, you may be looking for books and movies to get into the spirit of an adventuring naturalist. Here are some of our recommendations of what to read and watch to prepare for your trip.

• My Father's Island by Johanna Angermeyer: Published in 1998, this book provides an account of the author's German ancestors, who were among the first to settle on Santa Cruz Island. Their challenges and triumphs are humbling, offering valuable perspectives on the Galápagos. Members of the Angermeyer family still live on Santa Cruz Island, where they run the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn.
• The Galapagos Affair: Satan Came to Eden: Released in 2013, this documentary cleverly splices video footage, letters, and other archival material to recount a real-life murder mystery involving a self-proclaimed baroness, her lovers, and other settlers on Floreana Island in the 1930s. Cate Blanchett narrates one of the main characters.
• On the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin: This classic and its author will be referenced repeatedly during your time in the Galápagos. Read up on Darwin's seminal theory of evolution, which was inspired, in part, by observations he made in the archipelago.

First-timer's guide to the Galápagos Islands

Mar 1, 2020 • 5 min read

Planning is paramount before a booking a trip to the Galapagos Islands © Jesse Kraft / Getty Images

Wildlife is sure to wow visitors to the Galápagos Islands , but the archipelago has so much more to offer. Before a journey to this bucket-list destination, proper planning is paramount. Here’s what to know before you go.

From the adrenaline rush of snorkeling nose-to-nose with white-tipped reef sharks to the wonder of watching up-close as blue-footed boobies perform mating dances on the sand, visitors can experience firsthand how locals coexist in harmony with the creatures of the Galápagos Islands – home to the rarest and most diverse species found in the world, and the inspiration behind Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. 

There, time stands still, animals rule, and people delight in close encounters with wildlife, as there are no natural predators for the animals to fear. And beyond the one-of-a-kind wildlife viewings , there’s so much more to explore. In order to fully embrace a journey to the Galápagos Islands, it’s important to go properly prepared. 

What to pack 

From the jagged, jet-black lava fields of Santiago Island, to the powdery-soft beaches of Mosquera Islet, the landscape varies greatly throughout the Galápagos Islands, so proper footwear is fundamental. Sturdy, waterproof sandals will be required for wet landings, and lightweight runners or hiking boots will provide the proper support and protection from the rocky, uneven surfaces encountered during dry land hikes.

Weather waxes and wanes throughout the day, so prepare for both warm and wet environments. While the temperatures aren’t typically tropical, high-SPF sunscreens, protective sunglasses and neck-shading sun hats are essential, as the proximity to the equator means it can be easy to burn – even on cloudy days. 

For long days on the water, manage motion sickness with a patch or over-the-counter pills and pack a small first-aid kit filled with essential medications that you may need while out at sea. Bug repellent isn’t mandatory, but it might help to prevent bites during longer inland explorations.

Shorts and t-shirts will suffice on most days, however, a light raincoat and sweater will provide comfort on wetter days and cooler mornings. Avoid slipping on soggy swimsuits by packing a few, as the night air can be humid and swimming and snorkeling are sure to occur several times throughout the day.

Most importantly, bring a fully-charged camera with back-up batteries to capture the stunning scenery and fantastic flora and fauna found throughout the islands – many of which are unique only to this part of the world.

How to get to the Gal á pagos Islands

 There are two stopover cities to choose from when traveling through Ecuador ’s mainland en route to the Galápagos Islands: Quito or Guayaquil . While both are stunning cities, Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city, has more frequent direct flights to the islands, and is closer in proximity. 

Hotel del Parque – the first luxury boutique hotel to open in Guayaquil, is situated in the suburb of Samborondon, is a short 10-minute drive from the airport. Transportation can be arranged through the hotel. Situated on a tropical oasis, the restored 19th-century property offers authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and a peaceful setting to catch up on sleep before embarking on the remainder of the journey to the Galápagos.

There are two major airports on the Galápagos Islands: Seymour Airport (serving the island of Baltra), and San Cristobal (found on the island of Cristobal). The arrival and departure airport will depend on the location of the cruise departure or land accommodation site.

Before entering the area, a mandatory park fee must be paid by most visitors coming from overseas. In an effort to reduce over-tourism, each visiting adult traveler must pay USD$100. This rate is set to double by the end of 2020.

You might also like: Ultimate Ecuador: plan your perfect adventure  

Where to stay 

Water-loving wanderers often opt for a stay aboard a cruise ship or on one of the eco-friendly yachts, but there are land-based accommodations available as well.

While cruising tends to be the more common choice, a land-based stay offers a well-rounded option, providing visitors with opportunities to connect with the local people and culture, experience close encounters with the land-bound wildlife more frequently, and enjoy a restful sleep – ideal for those prone to seasickness, or guests looking for breaks to settle their sea legs. 

For a more affordable land-based option, Puerto Ayora provides hostel-style accommodations, however day trips and excursions to attractions found throughout the islands will need to be booked separately.

Pikaia Lodge , a luxury eco-lodge found on Santa Cruz , sits in the heart of a private tortoise reserve, perched on the edge of an extinct volcanic crater, and overlooks acres of endemic Scalesia trees. 

Darwin delights in every corner of the luxury lodge, which nods to the connection to the Theory of Evolution that emerged from Darwin’s visit to the Galápagos Islands, and the five-star cuisine, private 100ft luxury yacht, on-site spa and infinity pool provide the perfect setting for restful downtime in between days of adventure throughout the Galápagos Islands.

What to see and do 

For island visits, the guidance of a certified tour guide is mandatory. This can be arranged through cruise excursions or as a part of a hotel package. Wildlife viewing is a must, but the islands also offer adventure spots beyond the ocean’s edge. 

Observe giant Galápagos tortoises in the wild and learn about the history of the significant species at El Chato Tortoise Reserve , found on Santa Rosa. Afterward, explore the underground world of the islands by creeping through the on-site lava tube caves. 

Head to Academy Bay and mingle with locals at the waterfront fish market and then stroll through the artisanal shops and purchase cacao treats, lava-laced jewelry and locally-grown coffee beans during a visit to town.

Then, hike along stunning stone pathways to Tortuga Bay and watch as black marine iguanas run along the white sandy beach. Head past the unswimmable Playa Brava and kayak with sea turtles and sharks at the hidden bay of Playa Mansa, found just beyond a mass of mangroves that line the shore. 

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Wild Junket

How to Visit Galapagos Islands: Travel Guide 2024

Last Updated on March 15, 2024

The Galapagos Islands are some of the best wildlife destinations in the world. Here’s a detailed guide on how to visit Galapagos Islands.

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most beautiful and unique places I’ve ever been. Having been isolated from the world for thousands of years, they are home to unique animal species found nowhere else on Earth. Blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and marine lizards roam freely on this archipelago.

A Galapagos Islands trip might come with a hefty price tag, thanks to the $100 entry tariff and pricey island cruises. But don’t let that stop you. It’s one of the best wildlife destinations in the world for good reason. We have been twice and it  remains our favorite place on Earth! For those are planning to visit Galapagos Islands, here’s my Galapagos Islands travel blog and comprehensive guide.

Table of Contents

How to Visit ​Galapagos Islands

What make the galapagos islands special, a brief history of the ​galapagos islands, when to visit ​galapagos islands, how to visit the galapagos islands, the 2 airports on the galapagos islands are:, 1. go on a galapagos cruise, 2. do day tours on the galapagos islands, 3. take the inter-island shuttles, puerto ayora, santa cruz, puerto baquerizo moreno, san cristobal, puerto villamil, isabela, what to eat on the ​galapagos islands, 1. santa cruz island, 2. san cristobal island, 3. isabela island, 4. north seymour island, 5. bartolome island, 6. floreana island, 7. española island, 8. genovesa island, 9. fernandina island, 10. santiago island, how much time to visit ​galapagos islands, how to stay connected on the galapagos islands, cost of travel on the galapagos islands, rules of the ​galapagos islands national park, packing list for galapagos islands, final tips for galapagos islands travel, travel resources, galapagos islands travel guide.

The ​Galapagos Island​ archipelago is a collection of 13 major islands, seven smaller islands and about 125 islets and rocks. They lie about 600 miles (1,000 kilometers) off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean and are some of the world’s most secluded islands .

Historically the Galapagos Islands were uninhabited and only served as bases for everything from scientific research to English pirates raiding Spanish treasure ships. They remained relatively undeveloped until Ecuador claimed them not long after gaining independence from Spain.​

The plants and animals that live on the Galapagos Islands today are descended from animals that arrived by sea or air. Because the islands are so remote and far from one another, the animals evolved and adapted to conditions unique to their new homes. That’s why wildlife here are so special and cannot be found elsewhere on Earth.

Because of a lack of predators, most Galapagos animals never developed a fear of humans. Don’t be surprised to find sea lions lying by the streets and giant lizards swimming around your boat in the Galapagos. They are not the least bit afraid of us. The Galapagos is such a great destination for kids as they can get up close to wildlife and learn all about the planet here. Read my guide to traveling the Galapagos with kids.

Today, over 97 % of the land is national park , and Ecuador limits who may live there and how many tourists may visit. The Galapagos Islands are some of the most unspoiled places on Earth thanks to protection laws and conservations efforts.

During Charles Darwin’s nearly five-year circumnavigation of the globe aboard HMS Beagle, he spent only five weeks on the Galapagos Islands. His discoveries on the islands were paramount to the development of his Theory of Evolution. His book “The Origin of the Species: also put the Galapagos Islands on the world map.

Santa Cruz Island is now home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, which serves as the front line for long-term preservation programs protecting the unique Galapagos animals and plants for future generations.

One of the perks of the islands’ location along the equator is that the weather is going to warm and sunny all year round. Regardless of when you visit the Galapagos Islands, prepare for high temperatures.

There are two main seasons in the Galapagos: January to May is the hot season, giving calmer seas and warmer ocean temperatures. July to December is the dry season which sees cooler temperatures, making it great for hiking inland.

In general, the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is from January to May for the best conditions to go snorkeling or scuba diving and cruising around the islands. The Galapagos Islands offer some of the best scuba diving in the world .

It’s easy to add the Galapagos into any Ecuador itinerary . You just need to plan (and save!) in advance to make the most of your time in the Galapagos.

Most foreign tourists over the age of 12 pay $100 , while children pay $50. Visitors from the Andean Community and Mercosur nations over the age of 12 pay $50, and children pay $25.

This entry tax may seem a bit high, but it is important to keep in mind that these fees are helping to protect the fragile environment here. Funds from the entry tax are said to finance the conservation of biodiversity of flora and fauna, and benefit the local community.

How to Get to the ​Galapagos Islands

The only way to get to the Galapagos Islands is to fly from Ecuador. Flights to the Galapagos Islands depart from only two cities in Ecuador: Quito and Guayaquil.  Guayaquil is the main gateway city to the Galapagos, check out this list of things to do in Guayaquil .

You can fly direct to Quito from Miami, and return flights cost around US$400. Check for flights from USA to Ecuador . From Europe, most flights go from Amsterdam or Madrid to Quito for around US$700 return.

Flights from Quito/Guayaquil to Galapagos Islands cost around US$300 to $400 return. All flights are with either LATAM or Avianca , which are both reliable South American airlines. Foreigners are only allowed to book flights on premium class (and sadly they are very strict about it).

• Baltra Airport (GPS): Baltra is the airport closest to Santa Cruz Island. To get to Santa Cruz island, take a ferry for $5 and another $5 bus to Puerto Ayora, the main town on Santa Cruz. Or book a fuss-free airport transfer here .
• San Cristobal Airport (SCY): This airport is less than 5 minutes drive from the center of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. It costs only $2-$4 per taxi (not per person). Most flights to San Cristobal will make a stopover on Baltra.

*TIP: I recommend flying into Baltra and out of San Cristobal like we did on our recent trip. It’s the same price as flying return to either island. 

Book Your Flights to Galapagos Islands

Getting Around the ​Galapagos Islands

Traveling to the Galapagos Islands requires some planning (and saving!) as it isn’t the cheapest or easiest place to get around. It’s easy enough to do it yourself so you don’t have to book a Galapagos tour. There are three possible ways to explore the Galapagos Islands and hop from one island to the next:

The most popular way is going on a luxury Galapagos cruise, which brings you to several islands within a short time. You sail at night and arrive to a different island every morning. Cruise packages typically include all accommodation and meals, visits to the islands with a certified naturalist, and access to snorkeling gear and kayaks.

A 1-week Galapagos cruise can set you back around US$2,500 for budget standards or $3500 for luxury cruises. This includes all expenses, food and snorkeling equipment. You can save some money by showing up on the Galapagos Islands and shopping around for last-minute deals.

Those traveling the Galapagos Islands with kids might find that cruises aren’t particularly suitable for kids due to the intense schedule and limited space. Also, it can get choppy on the waters of the Pacific Ocean; many people get seasick while cruising the Galapagos. My friend was seasick the entire time he was on a Galapagos cruise. If your kids aren’t comfortable at sea yet, I wouldn’t recommend going on a cruise.

Budget travelers can opt to go island-hopping round Galapagos Islands independently, which was what we did on our first Galapagos Islands trip. We based ourselves on Santa Cruz and did day tours to other islands from there. There are plenty of local operators offering Galapagos tours online or at certain locations on the islands. Most Galapagos Islands day tours cost around $200-300 depending on where you’re visiting.

There are four islands that you can stay on without being on any tour:

• Santa Cruz: This island has the biggest tourist town and has most sights
• San Cristobal: It has a quieter town with iconic attractions
• Isla Isabela: Smallest town with few options but great for wildlife
• Isla Floreana: Only 1 hotel and no scheduled speedboats to other islands

Here are the most popular Galapagos Islands tours:

• Kicker Rock day tour from San Cristobal island (pictured)
• North Seymour day trip from Santa Cruz island
• Bartolome day trip from Santa Cruz island
• Floreana day tour from Santa Cruz island
• Snorkeling in lava tunnels on Isabela island

Besides day tours, there are also several speedboat companies that offer an inter-island shuttling service. You need to plan really well as there are limited departures each day and journeys can be long! For instance, the shuttle from Santa Cruz to Isabela takes around three hours.

The public ferries cost between  $25-35US per person each way . It’s best to check with a couple of ticket sellers in town before buying your tickets.  Or book these ferry transfers that include hotel pickups!

Public ferries only run these routes (back and forth):

• Santa Cruz (Puerto Ayora) – Isabela (Puerto Villamil)
• Santa Cruz (Puerto Ayora) – San Cristobal (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno)

Where to Stay on the Galapagos Islands

I’ve listed my hotel recommendations for the three most popular towns to stay at. If you’re wondering where to stay on the Galapagos Islands, these are the biggest towns.

Puerto Ayora , the main town on Santa Cruz island, is a lively town with a good range of midrange hotels and affordable guesthouses. Puerto Baquerizo Moreno , the town on San Cristobal island, is smaller but its accommodation options are more affordable. Puerto Villamil on Isabela island is the smallest but accommodations are cheapest.

Luxury: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel — Undoubtedly the best hotel on Santa Cruz, this stylish hotel is slick and unpretentious. It’s got a beautiful swimming pool and beachfront location, with even its own pier and private yacht. Excellent place if money isn’t an issue! Check the rates.

Midrange: Hotel La Isla — A beautiful boutique hotel with stylish designs that blend naturally with the surroundings, and its small scale provides an intimate atmosphere. It’s within walking distance from Tortuga Bay and the town centre of Puerto Ayora. Check the rates. 

Midrange: El Descanso del Guia — This new midrange hotel offers panoramic views over the coast from its rooftop. It also has a nice swimming pool, and clean and spacious rooms. Check the rates.

Budget: Hostal Gardner Galapagos — We stayed at this place located in the heart of town and minutes from the pier. Rooms are cheap and spacious, and relatively well maintained. Great value! Check the rates.

Midrange: Eco Hotel Katarma — The best hotel on the island is an eclectic and colorful eco lodge with an indoor swimming pool. Katarma is inspired entirely by art; it mixes different architectural, design, painting and sculptural influences to create a space where peace and life take the upmost importance. Check the rates.

Midrange: La Zayapa — Located right on the dock, La Zayapa is the heart of the town, offering room with views of the pier. We absolutely loved staying here. Good prices for such excellent location. Check the rates.

Budget: Hotel Cactus & Cactus — With a minimalistic design, this artistic hostel features clean lines and very simple but beautiful decor. Rooms are well-priced for what it is, highly recommend it! Check the rates.

Luxury: Flip Flop House — With capacity for four people, this beautiful, modern house has 2 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and a hot tub. The property was built in 2016, and makes a comfortable home away from home. I highly recommend this if you are traveling with family or friends. Check the rates.

Midrange: Drake Inn — Located right on the beach, this simple but comfortable guesthouse offers well-priced rooms just three minutes from town. Its rooftop has excellent ocean views and makes a great spot to chill in the evenings. Check the rates.

Budget: Hotel La Jungla — This budget place offers great value for money, and a rustic jungle setting despite being just a few feet from the sea. All of its rooms have wide windows that look out to the ocean. Check the rates.

Food, especially seafood, is a huge part of island culture here and the restaurants to ​not disappoint. There are full spreads fit for kings as well as authentic, local eateries that boast fresh and cheap grub.

Here are four places I highly recommend checking out:

Los Kioskos — Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz

This row of street food was our favorite spot to eat at night! Los Kioskos is basically a street lined with small, local stalls selling freshly caught seafood. You’ll hear sizzling from the charcoal parillas  and smell smoky, grilled fish long before you stumble across this little alley. Food here is reasonably priced and oh so bueno!

Galapagos Deli — ​Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz This deli is famous for its brick-oven pizza ranging in price from $6.50 to $9.75 USD and high-quality deli sandwiches from $4.70 to $8.75. Of course, it wouldn’t be a seaport deli without fish and chips, as well as piping hot espresso and delicious frozen gelato. Read reviews here.

Booby Trap —​ Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island Booby Trap is the best place to grab a slice of pizza, but it’s their fish tacos that I loved. The lobster also comes highly recommended at a very reasonable rate. The restaurant is owned by a greagarious retired American man and his Ecuadorian wife.  Read reviews here.

Muyu Galapagos — Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal

If you’re looking to splurge, definitely book a table at Muyu Galapagos, one of the best restaurants in the whole archipelago. They serve up modern fusion food, focusing on fresh seafood with a contemporary twist. Read reviews here.

Things to Do on the Galapagos Islands

With over 21 islands spread out over a large area, the Galapagos Islands really do have a lot to offer for active travelers who like to get out and about. Here’s a round-up of the BEST things to do on the Galapagos Islands and the best Galapagos tours to book. I will indicate below how to visit each site below.

See Lizards and Sea Lions at Tortuga Bay

A 45 minute hike leads you to Santa Cruz’s most beautiful beach and bay. There are plenty of marine iguanas and sea lions lounging on the beach when we were there. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling with white tip reef sharks, and occasionally tiger sharks. It was the first spot we visited and we were blown away!

How to : Visit independently by walking or taking a taxi from Puerto Ayora.

Snorkel in Las Grietas

Las Grietas is a beautiful naturally formed freshwater pool formed in a crack between two volcanic cliff faces. During midday when the sun is high, the pool is a bright, clear blue. There isn’t a lot of wildlife here, but the crystal clear waters make it just a fun swimming spot. Plus it’s free to visit the site! No guide or tour needed. We absolutely loved it here and could have spent a day here if not for our fomo!

Visit the Charles Darwin Research Center

The Charles Darwin Research Center is a breeding centre and rehabilitation facility for animals from local islands. First stop by the Ruta de las Tortugas for a guided tour ($10) — they run tours in both English and Spanish every hour. The guide brings you on a short walk and talks about the endemic wildlife and plant life on the Galapagos, before showing you the tortoise breeding area (which is fenced up). At the end of the tour, you’ll be led into a room where the famous Lonesome George (the last tortoise of its kind who passed away in 2012) stands immortalized.

After the tour, walk to the end of the centre to visit the museum and learn more about the wildlife of the Galapagos. There’s also a station beach where you can swim and see black-tip reef sharks. All in all, the research center is a great spot to visit for those traveling the Galapagos with kids .  

See Giant Tortoises at Reserva El Chato

Just a short drive from Puerto Ayora, Reserva El Chato is the best place in the Galapagos to see the rare Galapagos Giant Tortoises. You’ll see their ancient animals roaming around in their natural habitat, with no cages, fences, or walls to obstruct the view – and all for just $3. Book your entrance tickets here.

Swim with Sea Lions at La Loberia

San Cristobal is the best island to go for sea lions. Here at La Loberia, not only can you snorkel with tons of sea lions, but you will also see marine iguanas, lava lizards, frigate birds, and more. We had SO much fun swimming with the sea lions! Those animals can be really cheeky. It’s free to enter, just rent snorkeling equipment beforehand.

How to : Visit independently by walking 30 minutes or taking a taxi ($3 ride) from Puerto Baquerizo.

Snorkel or Scuba Dive at Kicker Rock

Around 3 miles north of San Cristobal island is this volcanic cone that rises from the sea. Kicker Rock, known locally as León Dormmido, is home to a smattering of blue-footed boobies and fregate birds, but it is really its below-water inhabitants that has visitors in awe.

The natural erosion of the cone has created a channel between the rocks that serves as the ideal place to view sharks and rays. If you come at the right time, you can see hundreds of Galapagos sharks (and come into touching distance of them if you choose to snorkel through the canyon). You might have the chance to see schools of spotted eagle rays, turtles, jellyfish, and sea lions.

How to : Only by cruise or on a day tour to Kicker Rock from Puerto Baquerizo.

Hike around Punta Pitt

Punta Pitt is one of the best places to see a huge variety of wildlife on the Galapagos. Both the blue-footed and red-footed boobies, and various species of frigates live in the area. They have chosen this site because its rugged geography prevents species that would be a threat to these birds from accessing here. Another species commonly found here are the iguanas, also due to its complex geography.

How to: Visit independently or a day tour from Puerto Baquerizo .

See the Views at Mirador Cerro Tijeretas

The Cerro Tijeretas lookout point offers a panoramic view of Shipwreck Bay and Kicker Rock. It’s definitely a spectacular spot and well worth the two-mile hike there from the visitor center. You’ll be hiking through a dry forest area full of cacti, acacia trees and lava lizards. The trail also leads to a calm, protected inlet along the shore which is a great spot for snorkeling.

How to: Visit independently by taking a taxi to the visitor center and walking from Puerto Baquerizo.

Hike and Snorkel around Los Tuneles

Los Tuneles or lava tunnels is a hugely popular site to visit. We hired a guide and came here on a day tour. A boat first takes you along the coast to a landscape characterized by bizarre lava formations and tunnels that provide shelter for an abundance of sea life.  You’ll then need to hike for a bit before getting the chance to snorkel with sea lions, turtles, sharks, rays, sea horses among innumerable fish species.

How to: The only way to get here is on a cruise or day tour from Puerto Villamil .

Snorkel at Las Tintoreras

Las Tintoreras is an islet just off the main dock of Isabela Island. It’s often called mini Galapagos since almost a ll the Galapagos marine wildlife are found here. There is actually more wildlife here than on the main island.

It’s one of the few places to see the Galapagos penguins, the second smallest penguins in the world. It was incredibly getting to swim with them and see them in the water! You can snorkel in the area without a guide.

How to: Take a half-day tour from Puerto Villamill.

See Flamingos at the Wall of Tears

The Wall of Tears, or El Muro de Las Lagrimas,   is one of the most famous hikes on the Galapagos Islands . It’s the only place to see the Galapagos Flamingos and you can do it without a guide. The name comes from the wall at the end of the hike. The Wall of Tears was built in the 1950’s by 300 prisoners, toiling away under the hot sun to cut and haul heavy black volcanic rock in order to build their own prison.

How to: Visit independently by walking from Puerto Villamil.

Our favorite spot, North Seymour, is a small uninhabited island that is hugely popular with all kinds of birds that live in the Galapagos. It’s a fascinating place with open nesting grounds of blue-footed boobies and the archipelago’s largest colonies of fregate birds. If you’re lucky, you might even see blue-footed boobies perform their courtship dance in the more open areas.

How to: The only way to get there is on a cruise or a day tour from Santa Cruz island .

Bartolome Island is the most scenic island in terms of landscapes. Be sure to climb up to the top of the viewpoint for a 360 degree panorama. There are black volcanic formations, which contrast sharply with the red, orange and green of the rest of the island. Also don’t miss the Pinnacle Rock, home to a colony of Galapagos penguins.

How to: The only way to visit is on a cruise or a day tour from Santa Cruz island .

Another island I really enjoyed visiting was Floreana, where Charles Darwin visited and collected the Floreana Mockingbird. On the island, you can find beaches of different color and a fresh water lagoon where flamingos can be observed during the hot season.

Devil’s Crown is an old eroded, semi- submerged, volcanic cone where you can spot penguins, sea lions, sea turtles, dolphins and colorful fish. It’s one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos Islands because of the coral reef in the middle which is a perfect attraction for marine life.

How to: Visit on a cruise, public ferry (no fix schedule) or day tour from Santa Cruz island .

One of the oldest islands of them all, Española Island is about 4.5 million years old and located on the southern east corner of the archipelago. This island is home of the Española Mockingbird, the only carnivorous one. Here there is also the only Marine Iguana population that remains red and green throughout the year. About 1500 tortoises live there today.

This is the only nesting site for the  Galapagos Waved Albatross, thanks to the cold waters from the Humboldt current. This endemic animal nests on the flat grounds of this island. They breed from the month of April to December.

How to: You can only visit by cruise or on a day tour from San Cristobal island .

Also known as the “Bird Island“, Genovesa Island most certainly lives up to its name in a spectacular way. It’s common to spot these birdlife on the island: puffball chicks, crowned and lava herons, red footed boobies, Nazca boobies and also the swallow–tailed gulls, the only nocturnal gulls in the world that will be nesting at the cliff’s edge.

Be sure to visit Prince Philip’s Steps, an 81-foot stairway that leads to a narrow stretch of land which opens out onto the plateau surrounding Darwin Bay on the north side of the island.

How to: The only way to visit this island is on a Galapagos cruise.

Fernandina Island is often referred to as a “land without time” as it is a volcanic island without any introduced species. The island is 300 thousand years old and it is still active.

There are an estimate of around 100,000 black and gray iguanas on Fernandina Island. As you look out the lava rocks they may look like they are moving – they are covered in these reptiles basking in the sunshine. Their dark coloration is an adaptation that allows them to hold onto heat so that they can stay under the water and search for food.

Despite being the fourth largest island, Santiago Island is an uninhabited island that can only be visited on a cruise. The   black lava pools at Puerto Egas are  home of a great variety of fauna, including marine iguana basking in the sun, hundreds of   red crabs ,   herons ,   fur seals   that will swim with you.

From there it’s a 2km walk to Sugarloag Volcano where you can get a spectacular view of lava lizards, Galapagos doves, and Darwin finches.

On our first trip there as backpackers, we spent 5 days in the Galapagos Islands and based ourselves on Santa Cruz the entire time. This time round, we had 1 week and stayed on Santa Cruz and San Cristobal, but we still wished we had more time. Ideally, I would recommend spending 10 days in the Galapagos Islands so you can enough time to base yourselves on the three main inhabited islands.

You’ll probably want to combine another week or so on mainland Ecuador to make the most of your trip. On this recent trip, we spent two weeks in Ecuador , combining time in the historic center of Quito with hikes in Otavalo and Cotopaxi National Park.

Our 1-week Galapagos itinerary:

• Day 1: Fly to Santa Cruz
• Day 2: See Tortuga Bay + Visit Charles Darwin Center
• Day 3: Do a day trip to Bartolome Island
• Day 4: Take the ferry to San Cristobal
• Day 5: Explore the Loberia, Puerto Chino, and the Giant Tortoise Reserve
• Day 6: Do a 360 day trip around the island + Kicker Rock
• Day 7: Fly to Quito from San Cristobal

Recommended 10-day Galapagos itinerary:

• Days 1-3: Santa Cruz Island  
• Days 4-6: Isabela
• Days 7-10: San Cristobal

Internet connection is limited and slow on the Galapagos Islands. Even in our hotel and Airbnb, the download speeds were very slow. Get prepared to disconnect abit while you’re here.

I recommend getting an eSIM card with data plan as that works faster than the WiFI in hotels. I personally use eSIMs wherever I travel these days as they are SO much more convenient – you can buy them online, and don’t need to go to the shop or activate your eSIM through the store. Most phones are compatible with eSIMs, including all of the new iPhones, Samsung, Google and Huawei phones. For a comprehensive list of phones compatible with eSIMs you can check out this article .

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store and it has eSIMs from over 190 countries and regions around the worlds. I have bought eSIMs from Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Ecuador and Peru from Airalo and never had any issues.

Check out  Airalo’s eSIMs  here. 

Let’s face it: the Galapagos is quite an expensive destination mainly due to the tourist tariff and the flight to get there. First you’ll be spending around US$500 for your flight and entry tariff . Day tours are around US$200-300 each, and a week-long cruise can set you back at $2500 .

Galapagos Islands travel is not cheap as the archipelago is so remote, almost everything needs to be imported. Accommodation on the islands are more expensive than on mainland Ecuador but you can still find decent guesthouses at $40/night for a double room and luxury hotels for $200/night.

Food is quite affordable especially at the local eateries. Expect to spend around US$8-10 on a local meal, and $20-30 in a hotel restaurant. There are also supermarkets in towns and you can cook on your own to save money.

All in all, you’ll have to budget for the kind of adventure you want. Just remember, the Galapagos Islands are a truly unique place in the world and they are definitely worth saving up for!

80% of the Galapagos Islands is actually protected as a national park and there are rules in place to protect the fragile ecosystem in the park.

• Some protected areas can only be visited with a licensed guide, so make sure you research before venturing out on your own.
• When you encounter wildlife, remember to stay back and not get too close as you might cause them stress. Don’t feed them or use flash photography.
• If you are traveling to the Galapagos Islands with kids , make sure they stay close to you and remind them not to go near or touch the animals as they’ll be interfering with the natural environment.
• Any professional photography or filming recorded for commercial purposes must be authorized by the GNPD.
• Camping is only allowed in a few authorized spots. To get permission, you need to request authorization from the Galapagos National Park’s offices at least 48 hours in advance.
• The Galapagos Islands take the practice of “leave-no-trace” very seriously. Since fire poses a serious risk to the flora and fauna, smoking of any kind, as well as campfires, are strictly prohibited.
• When shopping for souvenirs, do​ not​ take or buy any products made from banned substances like black coral, lava rock, native woods, and animal parts.

What to Pack for the Galapagos Islands

Any Galapagos Islands travel involve lots of time in the water and under the sun. Be sure to prepare yourself for the weather and pack sunscreen, sun-proof swimming gear and snorkeling gear . We didn’t bring our own snorkeling gear as we were traveling South America for a few months, but I highly recommend bringing your own to avoid having to rent one everywhere you go.

One item that I strongly recommend bringing is waterproof footwear. My favorite shoes from KEEN footwear have never failed me. They’re perfect for both land and water activities (like walking on corals or waterfalls). Also don’t forget a sun-proof swim shirt that can protect your skin even while snorkeling (bikini/shorts are not enough!).

• SPF 70 Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent with DEET
• Snorkel mask and fins
• UPF50+ rash guard swim shirt
• Dry bag for snorkeling/kayaking
• Quick-dry towels
• Sun hat that covers the neck
• KEEN covered sandals
• SteriPen to sterilize water
• Dramamine for motion sickness
• GoPro Hero 7 for waterproof photos/videos!
• Quick-dry t-shirts for the hot weather

• Bring cash in US dollars, which is the main currency on the Galapagos Islands.
• There are limited ATMs on Santa Cruz and San Cristobal, and none on Isabela island. Most places won’t accept credit cards, or will charge a high fee to do so. So having some spare cash is definitely useful.
• Learn some Spanish! Knowing some basics like ‘gracias’ (thank you), ‘por favor’ (please), and ‘como estas?’ (How are you?) will go a long way.
• The water conditions between islands can be rough, remember to bring motion sickness medication ! Even if you don’t usually get seasick, it’s best to be prepared for the rough conditions. I didn’t get seasick at all, but my friend who went on a cruise got seasick many times during the whole voyage.
• Print your flight itineraries and bring them just in case, because sometimes smaller international airports want to see a printed copy before they let you inside.

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Over the years (and traveling to 140+ countries), I’ve learned a thing or two about travel planning. I’ve put together this list of travel resources that I personally use to find the best deals and book travel! For more details, check out my travel tips resource page .

• Booking Flights : Kayak is brilliant for finding the best dates to fly as it allows you to search for the lowest airfares within a 3-day period. Then I use Skyscanner as they’ve consistently given me the lowest airfares.
• Accommodations:  I always use  Booking.com   to book hotels, mainly because of the flexible cancellation policy and good customer service. You can also find short-term rental apartments there (I prefer not to use Airbnb due to the extra charges).
• Travel Insurance:  It’s important to have travel insurance, regardless of whether you’re traveling for a few days or months. Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan , which covers any healthcare expenses I may have worldwide. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.
• Health Advice:  I always refer to the travel guides on the   CDC website  for recommended medications and vaccines. You can get them at your travel doctor’s office or a walk-in pharmacy.
• Tours:  If you’re looking for all-encompassing tours, I recommend small-group adventure tour outfitter, G Adventures . I’ve traveled with them to Antarctica, Mongolia, Svalbard, and Nepal, and loved every single trip. For day tours, I always book with  Viator  and  GetYourGuide ; they have easy booking systems and free cancellations.
• Car Rental: I always book car rentals on Discover Cars , as they’ve consistently given us the best rates and customer service (with free cancellations). We’ve used them in Seychelles, South Africa, Spain, Peru, and Mexico.
• Transportation : Whenever possible, I book local transportation online using  Bookaway and Busbud . They’re more reliable than many local transport websites and cover trains, buses, and car hire.
• Restaurants: TripAdvisor is my go-to resource for restaurant reviews and bookings. I also make restaurant reservations on OpenTable .
• Travel WiFi: I recommend getting an Ecuador eSIM before arriving here. Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store and it has eSIMs from over 190 countries and regions around the worlds. Check out  Airalo’s eSIMs . 

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 140 countries across 7 continents. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Her work has appeared in many major publications including BBC Travel, CNN and LonelyPlanet.com. Read more about her here and get more life updates from her on her Facebook and Instagram .

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Awesome post! Thank you!

Great info…thank you! Would love more luxury cruise recommendations.

very informative and very helpful

Thanks Richard!

After being in Guayaquil for a week, I have only 2 days for the Galapagos Islands. Do you have a recommendation for a 48 hour tour?

I will be there in mid-November 2023.

Fitness Travel

Amazing post and awesome pictures.

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Galapagos Islands   Travel Guide

Courtesy of prasit chansarekorn | Getty Images

Why Go To Galapagos Islands

With its untamed terrain and notoriously fearless creatures – from sea lions to seagoing lizards – the isolated isles of the Galápagos lure those looking for exhilarating encounters in the wild. After all, where else can you observe giant tortoises grazing on tall blades of grass, short-feathered penguins waddling along the equator or blue-footed boobies conducting their unique mating ritual, all unbothered by the presence of onlookers? More than 100 years after Charles Darwin visited during his legendary voyage aboard the HMS Beagle, adventurers continue to use his footsteps as a guide for their own extraordinary journeys.

The Galápagos archipelago sits approximately 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador and comprises 234 isolated islands, islets, and rocks, warranting plenty of exploration. But with so much to see and do across this remote string of islands, you'll have to be selective about which islands you choose to discover. To get acquainted with the Galápagos' famous dome-shaped tortoises, head to El Chato Tortoise Reserve or Rancho Primicias on Santa Cruz Island. If you're keen to delve into the history of giant tortoises, witness conservation initiatives, and grasp the captive breeding endeavors for endangered turtle species, consider visiting the Tortoise Trail in the Galápagos National Park in Santa Cruz. Additionally, don't miss the chance to see the iconic Lonesome George, whose preserved body is a poignant reminder of the importance of preventing species extinction. Afterward, trek east to the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn more about Darwin's work. If you would prefer a rendezvous with sea lions, head to San Cristóbal Island, where the cheery mammals engage in barking conversations along chalky white sands . And for a more serious adrenaline rush, head to Isabela Island to hike the active and imposing Sierra Negra volcano. Wherever your Galápagos adventure takes you, don't forget to bring your camera.

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• # 3 in Best Places to Visit in Central and South America in 2023
• # 9 in Best Places to Visit in Winter
• # 9 in Best Places to Visit in March 2024

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Best of Galapagos Islands

Best hotels in galapagos islands.

• in Finch Bay Eco Hotel
• in Hotel Solymar

Best Things to Do in Galapagos Islands

• # 1 in La Ruta de la Tortuga (Santa Cruz Island)
• # 2 in Tortuga Bay (Santa Cruz Island)
• # 3 in La Lobería (San Cristóbal Island)

Popular Tours

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8 Day Galapagos Island Hopping

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Transfer Airport-hotel in Galapagos Santa Cruz with visit to Giant Tortoises

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Galapagos Islands Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to explore the Galápagos Islands is from December to May. While the islands are excellent year-round, these months offer temperatures ranging from the low 70s to mid-80s, making pleasant conditions for hiking and wildlife-spotting. And though this season experiences frequent (but short) showers, the sun shines brightly on most days. Between June and November, the Humboldt Current, a current that runs northwest along South America's west coast, ushers in cooler temperatures and nutrient-rich water that attracts rare fish and birds. Albatrosses are exclusively found on Española Island in the Galápagos, and they can be observed there only between April and December. In August, Galápagos Penguins begin their migration from Isabela and Fernandina islands to central islands such as Bartholomew. Additionally, during these months, the region experiences longer rain showers and stronger winds, resulting in rougher seas.

To minimize the ecological impact on this fragile ecosystem, strict regulations are in place, including guidelines for site visits, allowable activity lengths and maximum passenger limits. You'll need to book several months in advance to secure a spot, regardless of your preferred travel dates.

Weather in Galapagos Islands

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Dive into shoulder seasons The "warm phase" (December to May) offers sun-soaked days and inviting ocean temps, while the "dry phase" (June to November) brings vibrant wildlife interactions, from bustling sea mammals to seabird chicks. For nature lovers, the "dry phase" is unbeatable.

You need a TCT The Galápagos government requires all tourists to purchase a Transit Control Card, which helps monitor tourist time on the islands. You can fill out your information online in advance or do so at the airports in Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca. The fee is $20, payable in cash at the airport. Keep the card safe during your trip; you'll need to present it upon departure.

You have to pay to play In order to tour Galápagos National Park (which occupies nearly the entire archipelago), foreign tourists not residing in Ecuador must pay an entrance fee. Individuals 12 years and older pay $100, while those younger than 12 pay $50. This entrance fee bolsters sustainable human development and vital conservation efforts in the region.

Prepare for sun The sun scorches the Galápagos Islands, and shade is hard to come by. Protect yourself with sunglasses, a hat and lots of sunscreen. A sun shirt wouldn't hurt, either.

Respect the Galápagos Code The islands aren't just a breathtaking destination but a national park and a World Heritage Site. As a visitor, you're entrusted with their care. The Galápagos National Park Directorate has set forth 14 crucial rules to ensure we all help preserve this natural wonder. Before your adventure, familiarize yourself with the guidelines .

Embrace the digital detox With its pristine beauty, the Galápagos is also a testament to life off the beaten digital path. Be prepared for limited internet access and unstable cellphone coverage. Embrace this opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.

How to Save Money in Galapagos Islands

Visit in the offseason If you plan a trip in October, November or between February and May, you'll find significantly lower costs. You'll still want to book a few months in advance to ensure availability (this is true of no matter the time of year you book).

Plan daytrips Though cruises are a remarkable way to experience the Galápagos Islands, they often come attached to exorbitant price tags. You'll find a handful of affordable expedition options available in Puerto Ayora , Puerto Villamil and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Plus, you can pick and choose tours based on your interests.

Get your fill of free attractions Though an entry fee applies to visit Galápagos  National Park, many of San Cristóbal Island and Santa Cruz Island's top attractions, including the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centers overseen by the Galápagos National Park Directorate and the Charles Darwin Research Center do not charge an additional entrance fee.

Maximize your first moments There's a wealth of activities in San Cristóbal and Baltra, the two places where you're likely to fly into. Visit Los Gemelos (the Lava Tunnels) or ranches hosting giant tortoises prior to visiting another location.

Culture & Customs

Ever since Panamanian bishop Tomás de Berlanga accidentally stumbled upon this isolated archipelago in 1535, the Galápagos Islands have entertained a bevy of visitors, from pirates and whalers to scientists and tourists. But the most iconic Galápagos visitor of all was British scientist Charles Darwin, who developed his ground-breaking theory of evolution after his stay in 1835, three years after the islands were claimed by Ecuador.

In 1959, organized tourism spiked significantly with the establishment of Galápagos National Park. This designation covered nearly 97% of the total land, solidifying its status as one of the most protected and biodiverse natural reserves on the planet. Today, the Galápagos Islands welcome more than 200,000 visitors every year.

While this tourism boom benefits Ecuador's economy, the eclectic array of species found here – and nowhere else – continue to be threatened. In fact, the remote region became so popular among tourists that the park was declared a World Heritage Site in Danger in 2007. Widespread preservation efforts have reduced imposing threats to the archipelago. It is no longer considered to be "in danger," yet conservationists continue to monitor tourist activity to reduce the damage caused by an ever-expanding human footprint. Travelers can minimize their impact by abiding by park rules and walking along the marked trails. 

According to the last government census conducted in 2015, the Galápagos Islands were home to roughly 25,000 inhabitants. However, the population has likely grown since then, with estimates suggesting that more than 30,000 people now reside on the islands. Of this population, a significant majority, nearly 20,000 individuals, call Santa Cruz Island their home, making it the most densely populated of the Galápagos Islands. This increase in population presents unique challenges and opportunities for the region, particularly in terms of sustainable development and conservation efforts in this ecologically sensitive and globally significant archipelago.

The dress code in Galápagos is generally casual: T-shirts, shorts or light trousers are your best choices. Evening dress code is generally quite casual, but it's a good idea to bring along a change of clothes. Given the archipelago's unique equatorial location, it's important for visitors to be mindful of the weather. Packing light layers and wearing ample sunscreen is essential to protect yourself from the strong UV rays. Additionally, comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan to explore hiking trails. If you're inclined toward underwater adventures like snorkeling or scuba diving, including a wet suit in your luggage is advisable, as are multiple swimsuits. Keep in mind that evenings and higher elevations in the Galápagos Islands can get cooler. Be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater to keep you warm during breezy nights or while exploring the captivating highlands.

The U.S. dollar is the official currency of the Galápagos. While the island vibe embraces cash for most of its dealings (from boutique hotels to local diners), some establishments welcome Visa and MasterCard. Just a heads up, though – American Express isn't a local favorite. Should your wallet run thin, Banco del Pacífico and Banco Pichincha have your back with ATMs, normally open 24 hours a day.

The region's most widely spoken language is Spanish, but a growing tourism market has brought English to major isles like Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristóbal. Additionally, hotels and local tour companies can connect you with English-speaking nature guides. But if you plan on visiting more remote regions, you may want to learn a few key Spanish words and phrases – such as "hola" (hello), "adios" (goodbye), "por favor" (please) and "gracias" (thank you) – to use during your vacation.

What to Eat

Dining takes on a unique and flavorful character on the islands. Galápagos cuisine echoes the simplicity and rich flavors of mainland Ecuador, featuring staples like potatoes, yucca, plantains and rice. These ingredients come together to create dishes that are light yet incredibly satisfying. Additionally, there's a strong emphasis on locally sourced, fresh seafood, particularly in the handful of restaurants situated in Puerto Ayora , Puerto Villamil and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno .

One can't-miss item is the Galápagos lobster, a delicacy best enjoyed between September and December when the fishing ban is temporarily lifted. Additionally, indulge in the canchalagua , a mollusk unique to the region, as well as albacore or yellowfin tuna, which grace the menus with their exquisite tastes . Fish enthusiasts can relish dishes featuring camotillo , also known as the white-spotted sand bass; pez brujo , the Pacific spotted scorpionfish; and bacalao rey , the Galápagos golden grouper. If seafood isn't your preference, you'll find dishes with chicken, beef and pork on offer.

As for breakfast, the day commonly starts with bolones (fried plantains stuffed with cheese and meat) and coffee or freshly squeezed juices like guanabana (or soursop, an acidic yet sweet fruit believed to help fight cancer), tree tomato (a tomato-like fruit known outside South America as tamarillo ) and passionfruit. During other mealtimes, expect to see ceviche and fish-based soups like biche (which has a creamy peanut base with a piece of white fish and chopped vegetables) and encebollado (made with tuna, yucca, cilantro, tomatoes and pickled onions) on restaurant menus.

It's also common for locals and tourists to enjoy typical local dishes on Sundays in the highlands of Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal, particularly in the Bellavista and El Progreso parishes. These dishes often feature hearty stews like secos and aguado , prepared with free-range chicken.

Many of the Galápagos' islands are home to wild animals, so you should take precautions when exploring the region. You must not touch or feed any animal you see. When snorkeling or diving near sea lions, stay a safe distance from bulls – the larger, more aggressive and very territorial males. Also, do not provoke sharks. When diving, remember to practice safe diving practices like equalizing your ears as you descend and knowing where your scuba buddy and guide are at all times.

The archipelago is spread across the equator, so you'll need to protect yourself from the sun while visiting. Wearing a hat and lathering on sunscreen (even on areas covered by clothing) is strongly recommended. 

Packing any essential medications and medical equipment is a must due to the region's limited medical services. While 911 services and local hospitals are available in the islands (and can handle first aid and common medical needs), it's important to note that the region may lack specialist doctors for certain medical conditions. Before your trip, speak with your doctor about any medications and vaccinations needed for diseases present in the area, such as malaria, Zika, dengue and yellow fever. Travelers should consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover potential medical emergencies or evacuations during their visit.

Galápagos is generally a safe destination, and thefts aboard tourist boats are extremely rare. The local community values and safeguards visitors, making the archipelago a secure place to explore. However, taking standard precautions to protect your belongings while traveling is always advisable.

If you will be flying into Quito, Guayaquil or Cuenca before continuing to the Galápagos, keep an eye on your belongings at all times at these airports and in these cities. If you choose to spend a day or two in these cities, it's advisable to stay vigilant (especially on hiking trails and public transportation), as robberies have occurred. Additionally, it's best to avoid hailing taxis on the street and traveling alone, as there have been reports of express kidnappings (sometimes involving taxis) and incidents of harassment, even in tourist areas.

Before visiting Ecuador, the U.S. State Department strongly advises all Americans sign up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , which ensures the nearest embassy or consulate is aware of your travels. Additional information about security concerns and how to stay safe in Ecuador is provided on the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Galapagos Islands

The best way to get around the Galápagos Islands is by boat. The key islands for island-hopping are Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal and Isabela. You can stay overnight on any of these islands or all three, using them as your starting points for daily excursions. Island-hopping packages usually include both sea and land transportation. You'll want to arrange an organized multiday cruise or boat tour several months in advance; that said, sea journeys aboard luxury liners are often attached to a lofty price tag, especially during the high season (December to May). If you wish to steer clear of the water altogether, you can fly from Baltra (a small island north of Santa Cruz Island) to San Cristóbal Island or Isabela Island.

You can fly to the Galápagos from Guayaquil's José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), located in mainland Ecuador. If you would prefer to fly to the Galápagos from Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), plan to stopover in Guayaquil and tack an additional hour onto your flight time. You can also fly from General Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MEC, located in Manta, Ecuador). Airlines EQUAIR, LATAM and Avianca offer flights to Seymour Airport (GPS) and San Cristóbal Airport (SCY). Most cruise operators will arrange to meet you at either airport and transport you to your ship. If you're planning on visiting the islands without a tour guide, it's easy to navigate your way from Baltra to Santa Cruz Island. To reach Puerto Ayora, take the bus or taxi.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (on San Cristobal) and Puerto Villamil (on Isabela) are both within a short drive of San Cristóbal Airport (SCY) and General Villamil Airport (IBB), respectively. However, it's important to note that General Villamil Airport primarily serves small inter-island aircraft and does not have commercial flights.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Americans will need to present a valid passport before entering Ecuador. U.S. travelers can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa, though the Ecuadorian government requires that you carry proof of identification and a photocopy of your passport at all times. Upon entry into the Galápagos, you'll also need to pay a fee. Adults and children 12 years and older are charged $100, while those younger than 12 pay $50. This fee grants access to Galápagos National Park (which comprises roughly 97% of the archipelago) for the duration of your stay. Sometimes, the cost of your tour or cruise will cover the fee; if that's not the case, you must be prepared to pay in cash upon arrival in the Galápagos. You'll also need to pick up a Transit Control Card, available from the Galápagos Government Council offices at Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca's airports. Some tour companies will take care of card registration for you, but if you are traveling independently, allot extra time for purchasing a card. Each card costs $20 and must be bought with cash. You'll need to present your passport and Transit Control Card again when you leave. To learn more, visit the U.S. State Department's  website .

Galapagos sea lions love lounging on San Cristóbal and Rábida islands' beaches.

Explore More of Galapagos Islands

Things To Do

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8 Must-Visit Islands in the Galapagos

guenterguni / Getty Images

The Galapagos are an almost mythical archipelago more than 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador's mainland. The 21 islands of various sizes spread over 17,000 square miles across Pacific waters and are home to some of the rarest wildlife on the planet. Depending on which islands you visit in this UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected national park, you'll find Galapagos tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and Darwin's finches. There are roaming penguins, frolicking sea lions, wandering crabs, waved albatross, hammerhead sharks, and sea turtles—all which are seemingly unfazed by human visitors. The Galapagos Islands are a place like nowhere else on earth, and easy to visit with such tour operators as the boutique cruise company Latin Trails and larger ships like National Geographic Endeavor II . Both offer various itineraries (14 of the islands are visitable), but which one to choose? This handy guide profiles the top Galapagos Islands and the features for which they're known, so that you can select what you most want to see and how best to do it. Whatever you decide, get ready to be floored. 

Floreana Island

  Westend61  / Getty Images 

At 67 square miles, Floreana is one of the largest Galapagos islands, and one of the few that Charles Darwin actually set foot on. It's located on the far south of the archipelago and is best known for its Post Office Bay, a free "postal service" that doesn't require any stamps, just travelers willing to take and leave postcards and letters. Whalers originated this unique barrel system in the 19th century, and it continues today. Just drop off a postcard, then sort through the stacks already on hand to see if there are some you can hand deliver to their intended recipients in your own city or state. It's an old school mail system in which the waiting is part of the fun. Floreana is also home to Cormorant Point, a good place for spotting pink flamingo and an easy walk from the island's green sand beach—created from olivine crystals mixed in the sands—where you'll find nesting sea turtles, lazing sea lions, sally lightfoot crabs scattered upon volcanic rocks, and rays swimming in the shallow waters.

Floreana is the site of "The Galapagos Affair," a historical documentary about a true-crime tale that took place in the 1930s involving European expats. Watching it before a visit gives the island a whole new twist. 

Santa Cruz Island

Westend61 / Getty Images 

At 381 square miles, Santa Cruz (not to be mistaken for the largest of the Channel Islands ) is the second largest island in the Galapagos. It's a central island with a sprawling dormant volcano that's home to the Charles Darwin Research Station where you'll find decades worth of scientific info relating to the islands, as well as a natural history collection showcasing the archipelago's sheer biodiversity. Santa Cruz's Puerto Ayora is the Galapagos' largest town, with a population of 12,000 (the bulk of the islands' residents). Here, you'll find hotels, restaurants, cafes, and bars, and plenty of tourist facilities for island day-trips, and it's just a 1.5-mile walk to Tortuga Bay—a spectacular white sand beach with a separate cove for swimming in the company of white tip reef sharks. While on the island, don't miss Dragon Hill, a 2-mile round trip hike that leads past cacti forests to the aptly named centerpiece, a hill that's covered in resident land iguanas, and which also makes a great overlook for spotting flamingos in the nearby salt water lagoon. There are also naturally formed underground lava tubes you can walk through, and the El Chato Tortoise Reserve—a great place to see giant tortoises (some 100 years old and counting) in their natural habitat. 

Genovesa Island

While blue-footed boobies are a Galapagos calling card, red-footed boobies are also an island highlight—and one that you're basically guaranteed to see on Genovesa, an uninhabited 5-square-mile island in the archipelago's northeast region that's shaped like a horseshoe. The smallest of all booby species (Nazca boobies are a third island type), red-footed boobies are best found nesting in the island's trees and bushes (unlike blue-footed boobies, which typically nest on rocky islands where vegetation is sparse). Genovesa's numerous bird colonies have earned it the nickname “Bird Island.” There are both red-footed and Nazca boobies, as well as Darwin's finches, swallow-tailed gulls, and frigate birds—a black-feathered, hook-billed seabird whose males have a distinct red throat pouch that they inflate balloon-like to attract the ladies. Genovesa is also home to the smallest marine iguana in the islands, and its nutrient-rich waters attract lots of hammerhead sharks. 

Isabela Island

  Bobby Kelly  / Getty Images 

The Isle Isabela is far and away the largest Galapagos island, a 1,771-square-mile mix of open lava fields and, at higher elevations, red mangrove forest that is made up of five young (and still active) volcanoes. It's home to Puerto Villamil, a remote port village with a population of 2,200, as well as Flamingos Lake, where you'll find more pink flamingos than anywhere else on the islands.

Isabela's Moreno Point is a good spot for penguin sightings, and its Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Cente r breeds all five subspecies of giant tortoise that are native to the island. They each spend approximately 6 years here before returning to the wild, and the center provides a great opportunity to view them up close from a non-invasive boardwalk running through its grounds. While on the island, pay a visit to the Wall of Tears, a 65-foot-tall wall built by prisoners who were part of a penal colony here in the years after WWII. It's an island history that few people know about. 

Fernandina Island

 Jesse Kraft / EyeEm / Getty Images 

Fernandina Island is the third largest Galapagos island—an active shield volcano that's constantly evolving with new and ever-spreading lava fields. It's also the youngest and westernmost island in the archipelago, but well worth a visit for its pristineness and wildlife: here you'll find elusive penguins, the largest population of flightless cormorants in the islands, and the biggest iguanas. Fernandina also boasts a really interesting miniature forest that's evolved without any soil, and remains the Galapagos' most volcanically active island—one without any introduced species. Basically, Fernandina Island is in a league of its own.

The island's Punta Espinoza features one of the largest marine iguana colonies in the Galapagos, often found lounging along (and blending with) the site's black lava rocks. A newer access point for visitors to Galapagos National Park is Fernandina's Mangle Point, a snorkeling spot where you can swim alongside playful sea lions, inquisitive penguins, marine iguanas, and more. 

South Plaza Island

RPBMedia / Getty Images 

This tiny island packs some stunning endemic flora into its small 0.08-square mile space, and coupled with such wildlife as swallow-tailed gulls, yellow warblers, and sea lions, it's an Instagrammer's dream. Depending on the season, South Plaza's sesuvium-covered landscape can turn from lush green to bright red, orange, and purple in drier months. Prickly pear cacti pop up here and there across the landscape, where a rare breed of hybrid land and marine iguanas reside. 

North Seymour Island

Jessie Reeder / Getty Images 

As if blue-footed boobies weren't entertaining enough in appearance, their distinct mating ritual is one for the ages. There's no better place to catch this elaborate performance than North Seymour Island, a small unpopulated island just north of Baltra Island (home to a commercial airport with flights coming in from Ecuador's Guayaquil and the capital city of Quito ) that's known as a birder's paradise. Here you can also spot swallow-tailed gulls, tropicbirds, and Nazca boobies, as well as eye-catching frigate birds nesting in the trees year-round. Land iguanas (introduced from neighboring Balta) and sea lions also reside here, and sea-life—including tiger sharks, Galapagos sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays—fill its surrounding waters, making them a hot spot for divers and snorkelers. 

Española Island

 PRASIT CHANSAREEKORN / Getty Images 

The southernmost island in the Galapagos and one of its oldest—estimated to be over 4 million years old—Española is a wildlife hub. Especially at Suarez Point, a trail that begins at a small lighthouse and often passes curious sea lions (related to the ones you'll find in California ), Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, Darwin's finches, and swallow-tailed gulls en route to a natural blowhole that can spray water up to 100 feet in the air. The island has some extremely cool wildlife features: including its “Christmas iguanas,” which turn red and green during mating season; and the waved albatross , a rare species endemic to the islands and tens-of-thousands of which breed on Española between March and January, performing their own elaborate (and drawn-out) mating ritual, which often includes lots of honking, beak-fencing, and bowing. Their wobbly take-offs, resulting in graceful flights, and massive wing-spans, are also incredible to see.

If relaxing on the beach beside sleeping sea lions is more your speed, the island's white sand Gardener Bay is your place. 

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• Adventure Travel

How to Visit the Galapagos Islands This Year

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Picture this: You’re standing on a blindingly-white beach, and warm cerulean waves roll up the sand and kiss your toes. Tropical bird songs fill the air, and majestic sea turtles wave at you with their leathery fins as they lazily bob down the ocean current.

Ready to find out how to visit the Galapagos Islands and enter ecological paradise?

This sounds like a dream, because the Galapagos Islands are out of this world. But don’t worry—they’re very much accessible in real life, and we’ll tell you exactly how to visit the Galapagos Islands. You’ll get the chance to experience a wealth of wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and a world truly unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Known as a “living museum and showcase of evolution” , the Galapagos Islands are the perfect destination for your next meaningful travel experience. Nineteen islands make up the famous chain off the coast of Ecuador, so there is plenty to be explored.

The land and sea are protected under the sanctity of World Heritage classification, so you know it’s gonna be good. Any experience you choose is sure to inspire you (as they did Darwin’s Theory of Evolution), so now all you have left to do is figure out how to visit the Galapagos Islands.

The islands are practically begging to be explored. Filled to the brim with bizarre creatures and sublime landscapes, it’s the perfect place to hike across moon-like lavascapes, get your scuba certification, or relax on the deck of a cruise ship . The Galapagos Islands are full of wonderful experiences just waiting to be discovered by you.

Why visit the Galapagos Islands?

The lack of natural predators means wildlife like sea tortoises, blue-footed boobies, manta rays, and even penguins are able to live a life of luxury! Many of these creatures are found nowhere else on Earth, like marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and flightless cormorants.

Encountering Galapagos tortoises is an incredible experience!

The archipelago’s protected land and sea offers a sanctuary for animals and people alike. You’ll never tire of the wildlife, but even the land is stunning: the island’s geography ranges from eerily, barren volcanic craters to blinding white beaches and pristine cyan water.

An emblem of vast biodiversity, we owe it to the planet to take care of this otherworldly archipelago. There are plants and animals that are only found here, making it even more important to ensure their home stays protected.

“Okay”, you’re thinking, “I get it, this is the most amazing place on Planet Earth”—but now you need to know HOW to visit the Galapagos Islands. Don’t worry, we’re not just here to gush over the glorious Galapagos. We put together a list of the seven best ways to visit the Galapagos Islands.

7 ways to visit the Galapagos Islands

1. take a cruise  .

Go on a structured tour of the Galapagos Islands with a cruise agency.

Galapagos Islands cruises are the perfect way to witness the islands in a sustainable, responsible way. It’s perfect for people who want an itinerary full of planned activities and dedicated chill time.

You’ll have the luxury of sitting back and relaxing while being whisked to the best snorkeling spots, dramatic volcanic hikes, and wildlife viewing for DAYS. Sneak a peek of marine iguanas, penguins, and even sharks!

Hooking up with Galapagos Islands cruises, like Voyagers Travel Cruise Agency , is the best way to reach remote islands and wildlife. There are some islands you can’t even visit without a tour company, so taking a cruise in the Galapagos is the best way to get an intimate look at the island’s most magical spots.

Treat yourself to a luxury cruise that supports sustainable and responsible tourism. By only allowing small numbers of travelers onto the islands at a time, the Galapagos are able to protect the natural beauty.

If you are particular about your travel itineraries, research offerings to make sure you’re on board with the activities and timeline. Some things are included in cruise prices, like rooms, meals, and even gear, but you may need to pay for things like National Park passes.

2. Study something  

The Galapagos Islands are perfect for studying things like Ecology, Marine Biology, or Conservation, because the place is teeming with biological diversity and rarities. C’mon, giant marine iguanas? Can it get cooler than a magical dragon lizard?

It’s also the perfect immersion for any Spanish or Tourism majors. The people are welcoming and the industry is booming. Many summer programs offer courses related to biology , zoology , and ecology , but there are programs throughout the year for any major.

From hiking to cliff diving, you can take your extracurriculars to the next level in the Galapagos. And maybe you can fly over to Ecuador on your break to explore the cloud forests and jungles!

If you want to study abroad in the Galapagos Islands, just do your research before you go. Be aware of tourist season; things might be pricey on a student budget, and things will be busier in the summer months. 

3. Contribute to a cause

There are dozens of causes to volunteer for in the Galapagos Islands!

Volunteering in the Galapagos is the perfect way to scratch that meaningful travel itch. Engulfed in exotic flora and fauna, you’ll find it hard NOT to get involved in an environmental cause. The most common type of volunteer work in the Galapagos Islands is environmental preservation and wildlife conservation .

Human populations have sadly started to encroach on the natural habitat of this island sanctuary, threatening native species. That’s why now, more than ever, you should volunteer in the Galapagos.

There are also ways to connect with native populations through education and community development programs. Whatever route you choose, programs often coordinate snorkeling, hiking, or scuba diving opportunities for a chance to tack on some well-deserved playtime after volunteering all day! 

4. Get work experience with an internship

If you’re still in school, take a summer break in the Galapagos by signing up for an internship. That way, you can enjoy your undergrad while actually getting some pre-work experience under your belt (or your wetsuit).

Internships in the Galapagos tend to be a little more nuanced towards biology. Certain internships in Ecuador allows you to work alongside farmers and educators on the islands to study conservation, botany, or ecology, making it perfect for budding biologists out there.

In terms of impact, the outcome of your internship in the Galapagos will be quite similar to that of volunteering, with perhaps the benefit of added responsibilities. Be sure to ask your provider about the key differences between interning and volunteering.

5. Mold minds aka TEACH

Teach by week, explore by weekend.

Why visit the Galapagos Islands? To make a difference in a child’s life! Not to be dramatic, but teaching is one of the most rewarding careers out there.

Whether you choose to get your TEFL certificate and teach English, or want to get involved in a different educational capacity ( like yoga or art ) teaching in the Galapagos Islands is a great opportunity to try something a little different in paradise.

It’s a way to give back to the community while building your resume and saving for your next adventure!

6. Comprende español and learn Spanish!

You won’t know how to visit the Galapagos Islands if you can’t ask anyone in their native tongue!

Even though English is actually pretty widely spoken, being able to navigate the Galapagos in Spanish will open a whole new world for you. Live with a local family for total cultural immersion, and you’ll be hablando español in no time.

You’ll have a chance to order delectable food in Spanish, make friends in the Galapagos, and perhaps even learn about some secret local beaches, treks, and more. 

7. Embark on an ADVENTURE

No matter what you choose to do in the Galapagos, we’re sure it’ll be an adventure. But if you want to explore the islands untethered, consider signing up for an adventure travel program in the Galapagos.

You could actually kayak across glassy oceans with the sea turtles, snorkel through crystal water with manta rays, or go deeper with scuba gear.

Whether you choose kayaking, hiking, birdwatching , climbing , or nature tours , you’ll see species that live solely in the protected archipelago, like the Galapagos tortoise. 

Your Galapagos adventure is waiting!

Grab a friend and make the journey to the Galapagos Islands!

Why visit the Galapagos Islands? Because it’s an adventure you’ll feel good about. No matter what you do, a visit to the Galapagos will give you a chance to experience a little bit of magic.

Extreme biodiversity, beautiful landscapes, and a welcoming culture—the islands offer something special you truly can’t find anywhere else.

Whether you choose luxurious Galapagos Islands cruises, or get down to business with a career-shifting internship, you are going to love your time in the Galapagos.

Get matched with Galapagos Islands experiences—for FREE

This article was written with help from Voyagers Travel Cruise Agency. Voyagers specializes in meaningful, interactive cruises around South America.

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The galapagos islands guide: what you should know.

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One Week Galapagos Islands Itinerary: Bucket List Travel Guide

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most magical places I have had the privilege of visiting. Filled with stunning natural beauty and an ecosystem that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, the Galapagos Islands are home to an array of endemic species that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. As one of the few remaining places still relatively untouched by humans, the Galapagos Islands offer travelers a combination of natural wonders, unique wildlife, and once-in-a-lifetime outdoor opportunities that make it a bucket list destination for adventure-seekers and animal lovers. While I wish I had multiple weeks to enjoy the Galapagos Islands, it is still entirely possible to have an INCREDIBLE trip in only one week. Here is my one week Galapagos Islands itinerary and bucket list travel guide!

How to Get to the Galapagos Islands

Made up of a group of volcanic islands located in the Pacific Ocean, about 2-3 hours flying from mainland Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands can be easily reached by air. Two of Ecuador’s major cities, Quito and Guayaquil, offer daily flights to the islands. Most visitors fly into Seymour Airport, also known as Baltra Airport. The other option is to fly in or out of San Cristóbal airport.

If you only have a week in the Galapagos Islands and your goal is to see multiple islands, my recommendation is to follow what I did, which is to fly into Seymour Airport and out of San Cristóbal Airport. That way, you are not forced to waste time backtracking. Note: book flights in advance because they will likely get booked up!

How to Plan the Perfect Galapagos IslandS Trip

I spent countless hours doing my own initial research, only to realize I could have saved so much time by reaching out to a tour company for help. Frankly, I was really worried about cost, but I quickly learned that the right tour company will guide you to the perfect itinerary while still keeping your budget in mind. I HIGHLY recommend the company, Book-ec . Every tour arranged by Book-ec was top notch and communication was impeccable. I truly cannot recommend Book-ec enough if you want to have an amazing, stress-free bucket list trip to the Galapagos Islands. All the activities I share in this itinerary are bookable through Book-ec!

Island-hopping vs. Cruising the Galapagos Islands

The biggest question I had when I first started planning my one week Galapagos trip was whether I should book a cruise or do a land-based itinerary that consisted of island-hopping and organized day tours. There is no right answer as there a pros and cons for each.

Pros of Island-hopping

• More flexibility to design your own itinerary and explore at your own pace
• Lower cost compared to a cruise
• Opportunity to interact with the local population and experience Galapagos culture
• Chance to stay longer on each island and get to know it better
• A wide range of accommodation options are available, from budget to luxury

Pros of CRUISING

• Access to more remote areas and a wider range of wildlife viewing opportunities
• Ability to visit multiple islands in a shorter amount of time
• Comprehensive pre-planned itineraries
• Onboard amenities and services

CONS of Island-hopping

• More limited access to some of the remote islands and wildlife sites
• Can be more time-consuming and require additional planning to organize transportation, accommodation, and activities

CONS of CRUISING

• Higher cost compared to island-hopping
• Limited flexibility to design your own itinerary and explore at your own pace
• May feel more crowded or less private, especially on larger cruise ships
• Some people may experience seasickness on a boat

Ultimately, the decision between island-hopping and cruising in the Galapagos Islands depends on your personal preferences, budget, and travel style. Both options offer an incredible opportunity to experience the Galapagos Islands. If you are not sure or want to get some ideas, it is best to consult a Galapagos expert, like Book-ec, who can help guide you to your perfect bucket list Galapagos trip.

I ended up choosing the land-based option due to itinerary flexibility, cost, and an interest in experiencing the local island culture. The choice ended up being perfect for what I was looking for!

How to Spend One Week in the Galapagos Islands: A Land-Based Itinerary

There are three inhabited islands that visitors are allowed to stay on, including Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristóbal. All three islands offer a distinctly different vibe and experience, thus it was important for me to visit each one – even if I only had a week!

My itinerary and recommendation for how to spend one week in the Galapagos Islands, with a stop on each of the inhabited islands, is the following:

1 Night: Santa Cruz Island

2 Nights: Isabela Island

3 Nights: San Cristóbal Island

One Week Galapagos Islands Itinerary: Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz is the most populated island in the Galapagos, with the largest town, Puerto Ayora, serving as the tourist center. Puerto Ayora has a lively atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and accommodations to choose from. Despite its development, Santa Cruz Island has preserved much of its natural beauty and endemic wildlife. I found Santa Cruz to be the most touristy of the three islands.

What to Do on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos

See the giant tortoises at reserva el chato.

Reserva El Chato is a nature reserve located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos. Here you can observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat and walk near them. The tour also takes you through lava tunnels, which was nerve-wracking for me as someone who is visually impaired but it was worth it!

Admire Los Gemelos in the Highlands

Los Gemelos, also known as the Twin Craters, are two large sinkholes. The craters were formed by the collapse of underground magma chambers, and are now surrounded by lush vegetation. There is an easy, accessible path that leads to both craters. My pre-trip research gave me mixed reviews about this destination, but I personally loved my visit and would recommend adding Los Gemelos to your one week Galapagos itinerary.

Arrange a Highlands tour, including Reserva El Chato and Los Gemelos, as part of the airport transfer to Puerto Ayora. The stops were both on the way to town, making it particularly convenient for a time-sensitive trip. ITINERARY TIP

Explore Tortuga Bay

Tortuga Bay is a beautiful white sand beach that is also home to a variety of marine life, such as sea turtles and marine iguanas. The beach can be accessed by foot or by a boat taxi. I recommend walking to the beach, which takes about 45 minutes, and then taking a boat taxi back. The Tortuga Bay trail starts from town and is paved the entire walk until the beach. Bring lots of water!

Check Out the Santa Cruz Fish Market

Stop by the fish market in the late afternoon to watch the local fishermen sell their daily catch. The sea lions were so interesting to observe, too! They LOVE fish, to say the least.

Extra time IN YOUR ONE WEEK GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ITINERARY?

Visit Las Grietas! Las Grietas is a natural swimming hole surrounded by cliffs and crystal-clear water. As one of Santa Cruz Island’s most popular spots for swimming, try to arrive early to avoid crowds. You can also visit Charles Darwin Research Station. The Charles Darwin Research Station is a scientific research facility where visitors can learn about the islands’ biodiversity, as well as ongoing conservation efforts and the history of Charles Darwin.

Where to Stay on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos

Luxury: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

Mid-Range: Hotel Cucuve

Budget: Posada del Mar

One Week Galapagos Islands Itinerary: Isabela Island

Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos and has a more relaxed and laid-back vibe than Santa Cruz. With a small town, the island is less developed and offers visitors a more remote and unspoiled experience. Isabela is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including the Sierra Negra volcano, pristine beaches, and, of course, spectacular wildlife, such as marine iguanas, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and Galapagos penguins.

What to Do on Isabela Island, Galapagos

Visit sierra negra volcano.

Sierra Negra is an active volcano on Isabela Island, and visitors can hike to the rim of the crater for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is moderately challenging, but the views are well worth the effort.

If you are short on time, or are less interested in a 7+ hour hike, I recommend going by horse! Organized by Book-ec, seeing Sierra Negra volcano by horseback is a bucket list experience that you must add to your one week Galapagos Islands itinerary.

Los Tuneles Day Tour

Another one of my favorite activities was a day tour in which we visited an untouched paradise known as Los Tuneles. The tour is a chance to not only see volcanic lava which has formed striking tunnels and arches, but an opportunity to spot marine life such as the sea turtle. During the Los Tuneles Day Tour, you can also encounter sharks, seahorses, sea lions, fish, blue-footed boobies, and sometimes even penguins!

Extra time IN YOUR ONE WEEEK GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ITINERARY?

With a one week Galapagos itinerary, tough decisions have to be made. However, if you do have extra time, Las Tintoreras is another one of the more popular wildlife viewing excursions in the Galapagos Islands.

Where to Stay on Isabela Island, Galapagos

Mid-Range: La Casa de Marita

Inter-island ferries can take you from Santa Cruz to Isabela, but in order to travel from Isabela to San Cristóbal by ferry, you need to first take a return ferry to Santa Cruz then a second ferry from Santa Cruz to San Cristóbal. This will take up an entire day. When you only have one week in the Galapagos, I strongly suggest splurging on a flight from Isabela Island directly to San Cristóbal – an easy 45 minutes! ITINERARY TIP

One Week Galapagos Islands Itinerary: San Cristobal Island

The last stop on this one week Galapagos Islands itinerary is San Cristóbal Island. San Cristóbal is the easternmost island in the Galapagos and the second most populated island after Santa Cruz. The main town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno feels more local with plenty of fun restaurants and shops along the waterfront. It is a perfect base to spend three nights and two days exploring more of the beautiful landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.

What to Do on San Cristóbal Island, Galapagos

Experience a 360° tour.

A 360° Tour on San Cristóbal is the best way to explore the island’s most impressive sights in a short amount of time. The full-day tour, arranged by Book-ec , includes a naturalist guide, boat, and snorkel gear to explore picturesque beaches, coastline, and Kicker Rock. If you only have one week in the Galapagos Islands, I would make sure to book this tour and the Española tour (noted below).

Snorkel at Kicker Rock

Technically, you will have the chance to do this if you partake in the 360 Tour, but if you need extra convincing, I’ve added this notable experience as a must-do in the Galápagos Islands. Kicker Rock, also known as Leon Dormido, consists of spectacular rock formations off the coast where you can snorkel and, if you’re lucky, see a hammerhead shark.

You will spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and other native marine life. If you are certified, this is also one of the best diving spots in the Galapagos!

Watch the Sea Lions at Playa de los Marinos

Walking around the town of Puerto Baquerizo Morena on San Cristóbal, you will not miss Playa de los Marinos. At this beach, you will see lots of sea lions relaxing and playing together. Always make sure to observe sea lions from a safe distance – for your protection as well as theirs!

Visit the Galapagos Interpretation Center

Less than 10 minutes walking from the center of the main town is the Galapagos Interpretation Center . Visiting this center was a spontaneous decision, but I am so glad I went as it is a special opportunity to learn about the history and geology of the Galapagos Islands. The exhibits were insightful and added to an important understanding of this remarkable place.

Take a Day Trip to Española Island

With three nights in San Cristóbal, this gives you the chance to do two full-day tours. In addition to the 360° Tour, an extremely popular day trip is to the island of Española, the oldest island of the Galapagos Islands.

EXTRA TIME IN YOUR ONE WEEEK GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ITINERARY?

If you have more time in San Cristóbal, consider a tour to Lobos Island or Punta Pitt. Punta Pitt can also be combined with Kicker Rock if you book with Book-ec.

Where to Stay on SAN Cristóbal Island, Galapagos

Luxury: Hotel Indigo Galapagos, an IHG Hotel

Mid-Range: Galápagos Casa Playa Mann or Galápagos Sunset Hotel

Budget: Hostal Romy

One Week Galapagos Islands Itinerary: Add a MAINLAND Stop in Quito

Due to flight routes, many tourists combine a trip to the Galápagos Islands with a visit to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. I had the chance to spend a full day exploring Quito, visiting museums, admiring architectural wonders, and learning about Ecuador’s history. If you need a place to stay in Quito, I loved staying at Casa Anabela Hotel Boutique , a beautiful boutique hotel located in the historic district and a wonderful base to see the city.

One Week Galapagos Islands Itinerary: FINAL THOUGHTS

As I reflect back on my trip to the Galapagos Islands, I am immensely grateful for the experiences and visual memories I created. I wish I had more than a week to explore because there was so much to do and see, but if you only have one week for a trip, do not hesitate to visit the Galapagos Islands. It was such an incredible adventure and I am sure that one day I will return.

A very special thank you to Book-ec for helping me plan my dream trip to this bucket list destination. Whether you are traveling on a budget or a luxury traveler, Book-ec will help make your Galapagos dreams come true!

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13 Best Islands to Visit in the Galapagos Islands

Julia September 28, 2023 Ecuador Leave a Comment

Learn all about the best islands in the Galapagos Islands with this helpful guide. It will help you craft an amazing Galapagos itinerary!

The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fascinating place to explore. Made up of over 20 islands, each island has its own unique appeal, offering a range of landscapes and wildlife encounters.

Whether you’re interested in giant tortoises, snorkeling with sea lions, or hiking through volcanic terrains, each island has something special to offer. This means you’ll have to island-hop to see the best of the Galapagos Islands.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the must-visit islands in the Galapagos so you can experience the very best of the area.

Disclosure:  Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Table of Contents

Introduction to the Galapagos Islands

Let’s talk about the Galápagos Islands, an incredible place you’ve probably heard of once or twice in your life. These islands are located about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. They’re famous for being a real-life natural laboratory, where you can see evolution in action.

There are 21 main islands in the Galapagos archipelago, and they were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Because they’re pretty isolated and haven’t had a lot of human interference, they’ve become a hotspot for unique and diverse ecosystems. This of course draws in a lot of tourists. (Hello, yes, I’m one of those tourists!)

The most exciting thing about the Galápagos Islands is that they played a huge role in Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking theory of evolution. When he visited on the HMS Beagle in the 1800s, he observed all the different plants and animals here, and that’s what got him thinking about how species change over time.

Today, the Galápagos Islands are not only a living classroom for scientists but also a protected area, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an Ecuadorian National Park. You’ll find all kinds of amazing wildlife here, from giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies. The underwater world is just as fascinating, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling and diving.

So, join me as we take a closer look at the best islands to visit in the Galápagos Islands, along with how to visit them, what to expect while you’re there, and where to stay for each island.

Best Galapagos Islands to Visit

Let’s take a look at 13 of the most visited islands in the Galapagos as well as those that you will want to make sure to visit during your time in the Galapagos, Ecuador.

1. Santa Cruz Island (Inhabited)

Santa Cruz Island is one of the easiest places to get to in the Galapagos archipelago as it is home to one of the 2 main airports in the islands. It’s also famous for the Charles Darwin Research Station , where you can learn about ongoing conservation efforts and see giant tortoises up close.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you won’t want to miss the highlands where you can spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Another must on Santa Cruz Island is snorkeling at Tortuga Bay. This is where you can swim alongside playful sea lions and colorful fish.

Remember to pack comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen to fully enjoy your stay here. It’s one of the more spread out islands and there is a lot to see!

• How to Get to Santa Cruz Island: You can fly into the Seymour Airport on Baltra Island from mainland Ecuador and take a short ferry ride to Santa Cruz Island. You can also get to Santa Cruz Island from Isabela Island and San Cristobal Island via inter-island ferries.
• Best Tour of Santa Cruz Island: The Giant Tortoise Experience | Lava Tubes + Los Gemelos – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Santa Cruz Island: Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island
• Highlights of Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station, Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, Tortuga Bay, Los Gemelos, Lava Tubes

Learn all about the best tours from Santa Cruz !

2. Isabela Island (Inhabited)

Isabela Island is the largest island in the Galapagos and boasts some incredible sights. One of the highlights on Isabela Island is the Sierra Negra Volcano with its otherworldly landscapes and expansive views. You can even join a hiking tour to walk up to the rim and witness a lava field from a previous eruption.

On the coast, Tintoreras Islet and Concha de Perla are perfect for snorkeling among penguins, marine iguanas, and sea turtles. For those who enjoy wildlife, you’ll also want to visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center.

Keep in mind that the weather here can be unpredictable, so bring layers and rain gear.

• How to Get to Isabela Island: You can get to Isabela Island on a day trip via boat from Santa Cruz or on the inter-island ferry from Santa Cruz. Alternatively, you can take a short domestic flight to Isabela Island from Baltra Island (off the coast of Santa Cruz) or San Cristobal.
• Best Day Tour to Isabela from Santa Cruz: Day Tour to Isabela Island with Tintorera Islet, Snorkeling Wetlands & Flamingos – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Isabela Island: Isabela Island or Santa Cruz Island
• Highlights of Isabela Island: Sierra Negra Volcano, Tintoreras Islets, Concha de Perla

3. Floreana Island (Inhabited)

Floreana Island offers a more tranquil Galapagos experience as it is the smallest of the four inhabited Galapagos Islands.

While you’re there, you’ll want to visit Post Office Bay, a historic site where you can leave and collect postcards in a centuries-old barrel. You’ll also want to snorkel at Devil’s Crown. This amazing sight is a submerged volcanic crater and offers a plethora of marine life.

As Floreana is less developed, if you plan to stay on the island, make sure to plan ahead for accommodations and dining options. Also bring some cash, as ATMs can be scarce on the island.

• How to Get to Floreana Island: You can take a day trip via boat to Floreana Island from Santa Cruz or opt for the inter-island ferry to Floreana from Santa Cruz.
• Best Tour to Floreana Island from Santa Cruz: Day Tour to Floreana Island with snorkeling and fishing – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Floreana Island: Floreana Island or Santa Cruz Island
• Highlights of Floreana Island: Post Office Bay, Devil’s Crown, Punta Cormorant

4. Bartolomé Island

Bartolomé Island is a small but stunning destination known for its iconic Pinnacle Rock. Here you can hike to the summit for a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding islands and crystal-clear waters.

Snorkeling around Pinnacle Rock is also an opportunity to swim with playful Galapagos penguins and encounter sharks and rays. Be aware that there are no accommodations on Bartolomé, so it’s often visited as a day trip from Santa Cruz.

It’s also wise to double-check your camera gear before setting out as you won’t want to miss capturing the breathtaking views.

• How to Get to Bartolome Island: You can take a day trip via boat from Santa Cruz Island to Bartolomé Island .
• Best Tour to Bartolome Island from Santa Cruz: Day Trip to Bartolome Island – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Bartolome Island: Santa Cruz Island
• Highlights of Bartolome Island: Pinnacle Rock, hiking to the summit

5. Pinzón Island

Pinzón Island is a hidden gem in the Galapagos. It offers a unique adventure for nature enthusiasts to explore rugged landscape and volcanic formations. It provides a stellar backdrop for wildlife encounters.

As you snorkel in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Pinzón, you may find playful Galapagos penguins darting past and can admire the graceful movements of sharks and rays.

Please note that Pinzón doesn’t have accommodations. This makes it an ideal day trip destination and certainly not crowded!

• How to Get to Pinzón Island: You can take a day trip via boat from Santa Cruz Island to Pinzon Island.
• Best Tour to Pinzón Island from Santa Cruz: Day tour to Pinzón Island and La Fé/Palmitas Bay with snorkeling and fishing – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Pinzón Island: Santa Cruz Island
• Highlights of Pinzón Island: La Fé Bay, Las Palmitas Bay, snorkeling opportunities

6. Espanola Island

Espanola Island is one of the best Galapagos Islands for bird lovers, particularly albatross. One of the best places to find them is Punta Suárez. It offers an opportunity to spot waved albatrosses during their breeding season.

Additionally, Gardner Bay boasts pristine beaches where you can relax or snorkel alongside sea lions and colorful fish. The Nazca Booby colonies here are also a unique sight. The best time to visit Espanola is from April to December when albatrosses are present.

If you’re headed to Espanola Island to bird watch, make sure to bring binoculars and sturdy walking shoes.

• How to Get to Espanola Island: You can take a day trip via boat from San Cristobal Island to Espanola Island .
• Best Tour to Espanola Island: Full Day Española Island – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Espanola Island: San Cristobal Island
• Highlights of Espanola Island: Punta Suárez, Gardner Bay

Concerned about cost? Get a realistic view of how much a trip to the Galapagos Islands cost .

7. Santiago Island

Santiago Island’s Sullivan Bay is known for its surreal, moon-like landscapes created by recent volcanic eruptions. It’s a unique place to hike and explore.

Nearby, you can also find fantastic snorkel at Cousin’s Rock. Here you’re likely to see sea turtles, sharks, and tropical fish.

When visiting Santiago, remember that there are no facilities or shops on the island. You’ll need to pack all essentials, including water, snacks, and a sense of adventure.

• How to Get to Santiago Island: You can take a day trip via boat from Santa Cruz Island to Santiago Island .
• Best Tour to Santiago Island from Santa Cruz: Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Santiago Island: Santa Cruz Island
• Highlights of Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay, Cousin’s Rock

8. Genovesa Island

Genovesa Island, often called “Bird Island,” is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Being one of the best islands in the Galapagos for birdwatching, you’ll want to ensure you visit Darwin Bay to witness red-footed and Nazca boobies nesting on the cliffs.

Another awesome destination is Prince Philip’s Steps. This is where you have the opportunity to see frigatebirds and storm petrels. The island’s horseshoe shape also creates a sheltered anchorage, making it a prime spot for Galapagos cruises.

When headed to Genovesa Island, bring a good pair of binoculars and a sturdy camera with a telephoto lens. They will help you capture the abundant birdlife.

• How to Get to Genovesa Island: The only way to visit Genovesa Island in the Galapagos is on a cruise or liveaboard.
• Best Tour to Genovesa Island: Galapagos Islands 5-Day Northern Cruise aboard Yacht Isabela II – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Genovesa Island: Galapagos Cruise
• Highlights of Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay, Prince Philip’s Steps

9. North Seymour Island

North Seymour Island is also known for its abundant birdlife and unique landscapes. On North Seymour, you can witness blue-footed boobies performing their courtship dances, spot land iguanas, and observe frigatebirds in their natural habitat.

The island’s arid terrain offers an interesting contrast to the lush highlands of other islands. While hiking, be mindful of your step, as the ground is covered with bird nests during nesting season.

• How to Get to North Seymour Island: You can take a day trip via boat to North Seymour Island from Santa Cruz Island .
• Best Tour to North Seymour Island: Day Trip to North Seymour Island from Puerto Ayora – Check availability now .
• Where to Stay for North Seymour Island: Santa Cruz Island
• Highlights of North Seymour Island: Abundant birdlife, including blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds

10. Rábida Island

Rábida Island, also known as Jervis Island, stands out with its striking red sand beaches and cliffs. The unique coloration of the sand and rocks on Rabida Island are due to the high iron content.

Snorkeling in the surrounding waters allows you to swim with sea lions, sea turtles, and a variety of fish species. You can also take a short hike to visit a lagoon nearby that is frequented by flamingos. It’s quite cool to see the color contrast of the flamingos and the island’s red terrain.

• How to Get to Rabida Island: The only way to visit Rabida Island is on a Galapagos Cruise.
• Best Tour to Rabida Island: Galapagos Islands 7-Day Western aboard Yacht La Pinta – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Rabida Island: Galapagos Cruise
• Highlights of Rabida Island: Red sand beaches, snorkeling opportunities

11. Fernandina Island

Fernandina Island is one of the most pristine and untouched islands in the Galapagos. It’s also home to the youngest and most active volcano in the archipelago, La Cumbre.

While the island lacks visitor sites, it’s a must-see for its raw, volcanic landscapes and incredible opportunities for wildlife photography. Keep your camera handy, and be prepared for rough seas when approaching Fernandina.

• How to Get to Fernandina Island: The only way to visit Fernandina Island is on a Galapagos Cruise.
• Best Tour to Fernandina Island: Galapagos Islands 7-Day Western aboard Yacht La Pinta – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Fernandina Island : Galapagos Cruise
• Highlights of Fernandina Island: La Cumbre Volcano, pristine landscapes

12. Santa Fe Island

Santa Fe Island offers a unique chance to observe the Galapagos’ distinct species, including Santa Fe land iguanas and the Santa Fe rice rat. You’re unlikely to find these species elsewhere in the Galapagos.

The island’s beautiful bay sldo provides excellent snorkeling opportunities, with playful sea lions and various fish species. If you plan to snorkel here, make sure to wear water shoes or fins to protect your feet from the rocks when entering the water on Santa Fe Island.

• How to Get to Santa Fe Island: You can take a day trip via boat to Santa Fe Island from Santa Cruz Island .
• Best Day Tour to Santa Fe Island from Santa Cruz: Day Tour to Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach with snorkeling and fishing – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for Santa Fe Island: Santa Cruz Island
• Highlights of Santa Fe Island: Santa Fe land iguanas and rice rats, snorkeling opportunities

13. San Cristobal Island (Inhabited)

San Cristobal Island is a must-visit in the Galapagos with its blend of natural beauty and wildlife encounters. One of its standout attractions is Cerro Brujo, a pristine white sand beach framed by turquoise waters. Here, you can often spot sea lions lounging in the sun and seabirds soaring overhead.

Make sure to visit to the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal. It is one of the best ways to learn about the Galapagos history and conservation efforts. Also you don’t want to miss a trip to Kicker Rock . This dramatic rock formation provides excellent snorkeling and scubadiving opportunities alongside turtles, rays, and various fish species. It’s where I saw my first hammerhead shark!

Keep in mind that the island’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly with layers and waterproof gear to make the most of your adventure on San Cristobal.

• How to Get to San Cristobal Island: You can fly into San Cristobal Island from mainland Ecuador. You can also get to San Cristobal Island from Santa Cruz Island via inter-island ferry.
• Best Tour of San Cristobal Island: Full Day Tour 360 San Cristobal – Best of the Island – Check availability now.
• Where to Stay for San Cristobal Island: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island
• Highlights of San Cristobal Island: Cerro Brujo’s pristine white sand beach and abundant wildlife

Where to Stay in the Galapagos Islands

Accommodations in the Galapagos Islands are primarily found on the four inhabited islands: Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana.

This means all of the rest of the islands in the Galapagos require day trips or cruises to visit. You cannot visit the other islands on your own. You will have to be part of a tour of some kind.

This means you have limited hotel options in the Galapagos Islands. Fortunately, there are accommodations to fit every budget, from hostels all the way up to resorts on some of the islands. Let’s take a closer look at the four islands you can stay on in the Galapagos Islands.

Santa Cruz Island

Neighboring Baltra Island, home to one of the major airports into the Galapagos is Santa Cruz Island (Isla Santa Cruz). Because of its prime location and the many tours from Santa Cruz , it’s one of the best places to stay in the Galapagos Islands.

In Santa Cruz, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations in the main city of Puerto Ayora. Here you can choose from hotels, hostels, and eco-lodges. It’s the most developed island and offers the widest selection of hotels in the Galapagos.

Isabela Island

Next up is Isabela Island (Isla Isabela). It’s a short ferry ride from Santa Cruz and also a popular day trip location from Santa Cruz.

The town of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island is the primary place to stay on Isabela Island. This town offers a small selection of hotels and guesthouses. Keep in mind that this town is relatively smaller and quieter than Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz, but it still serves as a great base for your Galapagos exploration.

I personally spent a couple of nights here to thoroughly explore Isabela with tours along the coast and inland at Sierra Negra Volcano. It has a very quaint “downtown” with restaurants, shops, and hotels.

Floreana Island

The least populated of the inhabited islands in the Galapagos is Floreana Island (Isla Floreana). This also means that hotels on Floreana Island are limited – but available.

Here you can stay at small hotels or guesthouses in Puerto Velasco Ibarra, the island’s main settlement. Due to its limited population and services available, less people tend to stay on Floreana versus visiting Floreana Island as a day trip from Santa Cruz.

I ultimately chose to visit Floreana as a day trip from Santa Cruz simply because there are less things to see and tours to do from Floreana meaning it requires less of your precious time in the Galapagos. That being said, Floreana had the most playful sea lions during my snorkeling here, so I’m glad I made the trip!

San Cristobal Island

San Cristobal Island (Isla San Cristobal) is another ideal place to stay in the Galapagos. Its vibrant town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno has numerous accommodations, including hotels and hostel along with many restaurants and shops.

It is also the other main entry point to the Galapagos Islands from mainland Ecuador. This makes it a busier island than most in the Galapagos – except of course Santa Cruz, the other island with a mainland connection.

Remember that the availability and quality of accommodations in the Galapagos Islands can vary. It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons so that you have prime selection and location choices.

Another option, when visiting other islands on day trips or overnight tours, is that your tour operator may be able to help arrange accommodations as part of the package.

For remote islands like Genovesa, Santiago, North Seymour, Rábida, Fernandina, and Santa Fe, there are no permanent accommodations or residents. This means they must be visited on guided tours or cruise itineraries. When you set off on a multi-day cruise or tour, your accommodations will be provided onboard the vessel.

Explore More of the Galapagos Islands

As you can see, each Galapagos Island offers a diverse and unparalleled natural experience. This means you’ll want to visit as many of these best islands in the Galapagos as you can during your time there.

It’s the best way to get a true feeling for the area. In this way you’ll encounter more wildlife and stunning scenery to better understand what makes the Galapagos a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Continue planning your trip to the Galapagos with these helpful resources!

• How to Travel to the Galapagos Islands on a Budget
• The True Cost of Traveling the Galapagos Islands: A Budget Breakdown
• 6 Critical Things To Know Before Going to the Galapagos Islands
• 12 Best Tours from Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands: Day Trips+

Lonely Planet Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands

Lonely Planet’s Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands is your essential guide to discovering the best of Ecuador.

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8 Things to know before traveling to the Galapagos Islands

Traveling to the Galapagos Islands  is an adventure worth planning for. The Islands are full of mystery and majesty, with new discoveries surprising guests daily as a matter of course. Making the  trip to Ecuador  and the islands also has its fair share of surprises as the small country’s infrastructure differs from other parts of the world. Use this guide for some  frequently asked questions about Ecuador and the Islands  to make sure that your journey is smooth sailing and one to remember fondly.

1. Going through immigration

After booking your trip, make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your departure date from Ecuador . Upon being granted permission to enter the country, visitors will be given a 12-x tourist visa which is good for 90 days. Note that you cannot have a flight out of the country that goes beyond this period; if you are planning on extending your stay past your tourist visa it is highly recommended that you arrange it before entering the country.

2. Galapagos Government Regulations​

When arriving at the Galapagos, at the immigration office you will be required to present a domestic round air ticket, a hotel or cruise reservation; in case you are not staying at a hotel or cruise an invitation letter from a Galapagos resident. These conditions are obligatory, and if not presented passengers will not be allowed in the islands.

3. What to pay before entering the plane!

Agencies offer packages that include flights to the Galapagos but there are a few things to be aware of before you fly. Once at the Quito or Guayaquil airport, passengers must buy a US$20  Transit Control Card  at the INGALA counter to be used when entering and leaving the islands. This control card can only be purchased in cash at the airport

4. Galapagos Forever​

Once in the archipelago is important to keep in mind that the Galapagos face a very serious threat from non-native plants, and invasive species. As a result , there are strict controls at the airport to prevent any pets, food, plants, or agriculture from making its way to the Enchanted Islands .

5. Entering the Galapagos National Park

Once at the Galapagos airport you need to pay the  Galapagos National Park entrance fee  of US$100.00 payable only in cash . Although there is an ATM at the Baltra airport, it is better to withdraw the amount before embarking in Quito or Guayaquil. The money you pay per entrance fee is highly important for the Galapagos National Park. The funds collected from the entry tax are used to finance the conservation of biodiversity, and to benefit the local community by improving basic services, education projects, sports, health, environmental sanitation, environmental services, and services directly related to tourism.

6. What is the best payment method to use?

Cash is the best way to pay. Despite credit cards are the most common payment method around the globe, the Galapagos Islands due to  it’s  condition of isolated islands faces the problem of telecommunication. Internet in Galapagos is provided via Satellite which makes it quite slow and unstable. Although there are places that take debit or credit cards,  it’s much better to take enough cash for everything that is not covered in your tour. You will find ATM’s at Santa Cruz and at San Cristobal so you will be able to withdraw money..

7. Getting Around in the Islands​

Once again, I must mention that Galapagos is an isolated place, therefore, there are not many cars or means of transportation, the only ones you might be able to see are the roller scooters. However, everything has been well thought and organized. After you leave the airport you will find shuttles that will  take you to the Itabaca Channel , where a ferry will take you to the other side of the channel. Here you can either hire private transportation or take a line bus to take you to Puerto Ayora. In  Puerto Ayora  you will see that everything is really close, so you can walk almost everywhere or take a taxi which will take you wherever you need to go. For inter-island transfers you have daily water shuttles, which after a two-hour sail will take you to a different Island. (Sometimes could take a little longer, it all depends on the sea currents.

8. Health Insurance

Upon your arrival in Galapagos, at the airport immigration office, you must present health insurance details – which must be valid throughout your stay in Ecuador

Ok, so now you know what to do before traveling to the Enchanted Islands, one of the most wonderful and pristine places in the world. If you have already booked your Galapagos adventure, I hope you have a wonderful trip. However, if you haven’t let me tell you that at  Galapagos Travel Center , we will be delighted to help you  plan your trip to the Archipelago .

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The Galápagos Islands: Fifteen Things To Know Before You Go

Categories Ecuador , Travel Tips

Last Updated on January 15, 2024

Visiting the Galapagos Islands was truly a travel dream come true – a trip I’d been dreaming about for years! A dream trip comes with high expectations, and I can honestly say that my Galapagos Islands cruise exceeded my expectations, which is rare. These far-flung, remote islands ended up being completely different to how I imagined them to be.

Until a few years ago, when I traveled to South America for the very first time, I had pictured the Galapagos Islands to be much more desolate than they actually are – basically only inhabited by wild creatures. Before I booked my flights to Ecuador, I had already learned that the islands are far more inhabited than I thought they were. And while cruising between several islands this year, I learned so much more about the islands! This includes a few things to know before visiting the Galápagos Islands, or if you just want to find out more about one of the most remote archipelagos in the world.

Table of Contents

Here are fifteen things to know before visiting the Galápagos Islands:

1 The Galapagos Islands are far out in the Ocean

While the Galápagos Islands belong to the tiny Andean country of Ecuador, they are in fact very far from the rest of the country – 560 miles (901 kilometers), to be exact. The islands are far out in the Pacific Ocean, and it takes just under two hours to fly there from Guayaquil, the closest airport on the mainland, and 2 hours 15 minutes from Quito, Ecuador’s capital.

It is not easy to visit the Galapagos Islands – from North America, you’ll have to fly to Quito or Guayaquil, and then take another flight out to the islands. For many people, that means three different flights, since most cities in the U.S. do not have a direct connection to Ecuador. Since the Galapagos Islands belong to Ecuador, the national language is Spanish .

2 How Many Islands are There?

The archipelago consists of 13 major islands , five of which are inhabited, and six smaller islands. Several of the smaller islets are not inhabited by humans at all, only by wildlife. There are over 100 small islets or rocks in addition to the bigger islands.

The islands sit right on the equator and are home to over 25,000 people . About half of them live in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, which makes it by far the biggest settlement of the archipelago.

All of the islands are volcanic, and were formed 4 million years ago by lava oozing upward from the floor of the ocean. Some of the volcanoes are active to this day.

Most people who visit the Galapagos Islands only get to set foot on one or two of the islands, and cruise around some of the others without actually docking there.

3 Unique Species in the Galapagos Islands

One thing the Galápagos Islands are famous for is their variety of wildlife. This includes a number of species endemic to the islands, i.e. you will see animals that you won’t see anywhere else in the world, such as the Galápagos fur seal, the Galápagos land iguana, the Galápagos sea lion, the Galápagos land tortoise, and the marine iguana (the only lizard that can swim). The Galápagos Islands are also the only place in the entire world where penguins live along the equator.

In addition to the species that are unique to the Galápagos Islands, there are dozens of other species, none of which seem to care about the presence of visitors. Sightings of blue-footed boobies, great frigate birds, marine iguanas, giant tortoises, hammerhead sharks, manta rays and flamingos are pretty much guaranteed.

4 Many Species on the Galapagos Islands are Endangered

Sadly, many of the species that are unique to the Galápagos, such as the Giant Tortoise, have been endangered for centuries, starting from when Spanish explorers in the 17 th century killed them for their meat, and later pirates hunted them for their shells. 16 of 20 song bird species only found in the Galápagos are threatened, and some species are entirely extinct.

You’ll notice these protective measures even before you board your plane for the islands – it is prohibited to bring in any agricultural goods (like fruits) because non-native plants and animals pose one of the biggest challenges to the conservation of the Galápagos Islands. This is why each and every bag is thoroughly checked for fresh produce before you check in.

5 Not all of the Galapagos Islands Feel Remote

The Galapagos Islands are often portrayed as this desolate group of islands out in the middle of the ocean – but several islands are inhabited and these don’t have the ‘undiscovered island’ feel which you might have experienced on a visit to the Galápagos pre-1969, when the only way to get there was by boat – daily flight connections didn’t exist.

6 Things To Consider Before Booking a Galapagos Islands Cruise

This is one of the most important things to know before visiting the Galapagos Islands: It is a good idea to ‘shop around’ a bit for a cruise: compare prices, see what’s included in the trip and what isn’t, and read reviews of the tour company from previous customers.

When comparing different tour operators, these are the questions you should ask:

• What’s the itinerary for the cruise?
• How many passengers are on board?
• What’s included in the trip?
• Are there any additional fees you should be aware of?
• Are snorkeling equipment and wet suits included?
• Will there be shared cabins (if you are traveling solo)?

7 Visiting the Galapagos Islands Independently is Possible

For a long time, the best way to see the Galapagos was to take a cruise, but in recent years it has become much easier to visit the Galapagos Islands independently. For one, flights from the mainland have become more affordable (the standard fare is currently around $280 for a return flight from Guayaquil, and $300 from Quito). There are more independent guesthouses and hotels on the inhabited islands, and thanks to Airbnb, people on the islands are now able to rent out private rooms or their entire apartment easily.

Day Trips vs Cruises

Yes, it is less costly to fly straight to the Galápagos Islands, base yourself there, and then take day trips to other islands or to some of the famous snorkeling spots. However, I greatly appreciated being on a cruise because there are several spots around the islands that are so far from the inhabited islands that it’s only possible to get there if you are on a cruise.

8 Last Minute Deals for Galapagos Islands Cruises are NOT a Myth

If you are planning to visit the Galápagos Islands as part of a greater South America journey or a trip around Ecuador, like I did, it is definitely possible to find last minute deals to the Galápagos Islands. The first guesthouse I stayed at in Quito had its own on-site travel agency that was selling last-minute deals for Galápagos cruises, and in Guayaquil most hostels, hotels and a number of tour operators sell Galápagos deals. I even saw last-minute offers in Montañita and Cuenca, albeit to a lesser extent.

9 The Quality of Galapagos Island Cruises Varies Greatly

What does that mean? Well, on budget cruises it is common to share a cabin with a stranger. A female friend of mine who booked a last minute cruise for around $1,000 had to share a cabin with a fellow passenger – who happened to be a man. Luckily for her, it worked out well, but I know that not everybody would be comfortable in a situation like that. That’s definitely one of the most important things to know before visiting the Galapagos Islands, especially when you’re planning to book a cruise (ask your tour operator about the room situation).

I was spoiled on my luxury cruise with snacks after every snorkeling trip and land excursion, as well as buffet-style lunches and dinners, with plenty of vegetarian options, but budget cruises have a more limited selection of food, no snacks in between meals, and the quality of the food can be disappointing.

Budget cruises also may not have the best quality equipment for snorkeling and diving, or charge an extra fee for wet suits / snorkeling equipment.

10 Boat Life in the Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Island cruises range from four to eight days. But be aware that if you take a four-day tour, this includes flying in and flying out, which means that essentially you will only have three or a max. of three and a half days on the islands. I’d recommend at least a five day cruise , but if you can afford an eight day cruise, definitely go for it. You’re probably only going to visit the Galapagos Islands ONCE, so you’ll want to make the most of it.

Visiting the Galapagos Islands: The Ships

What about Seasickness?

I was a bit worried about getting seasick, considering how far out in the open ocean the islands are, but I visited during dry season (January – June), when the seas are generally calmer than during wet season (July – December). During my first night, I did feel a bit dizzy when the boat started moving, but luckily the feeling passed quickly. To be safe, I’d recommend wearing a seasickness wristband, which some of my fellow passengers were using.

If you are prone to seasickness, try not to visit the Galapagos Islands between August and October, when the ocean is the roughest.

Sailboats generally move more than wider motorboats and catamarans, so check what kind of boat you’re traveling on.

11 What Does it Cost to Visit the Galápagos Islands?

Costs that occur for everybody visiting the Galapagos Islands, no matter if on a tour, a cruise, or independently, are:

• $20 transit control fee (to be paid in cash at the departure airport for the Galápagos Islands, usually Quito or Guayaquil)
• $100 National Park Entrance Fee (to be paid in cash at arrival in the Galápagos Islands airport – Baltra or San Cristobal)
• $300 return flight to the Galápagos Islands from Quito or Guayaquil

Prices for a Galápagos cruise are roughly per day :

• Tourist class $240-$340
• First-class $340-$450
• Luxury ships $450 and up

You have to tip your guide and crew ( budget $10 – $20 per day for tipping , depending on the price you’re paying for your cruise. As a rule of thumb – the nicer the boat, the higher the amount is that you’re expected to tip).

If you visit the Galapagos Islands independently, you can find a private room in a hostel, guesthouse or Airbnb for around $30 per night . Entire apartments start at $50 per night. Booking.com has plenty of double rooms for less than $40 a night.

Ferries between the islands are around $30 per person, and there are flights between Baltra, Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal, which are around $160 one way.

12 Galapagos Islands Money Matters

ATMs/Credit Cards

Currency in the Galapagos Islands: The US Dollar

Ecuador introduced the U.S. Dollar as its official currency in 2000.

All ATMs in the Galapagos Islands give U.S. Dollars. If you are visiting from the U.S., make sure to bring enough cash from home, because not a lot of businesses take credit cards. You’ll need cash for alcohol on board, to tip your crew, and if you stop at a bar or restaurant in Puerto Ayora or San Cristóbal, where cash is king . Note that most places do not accept $100 bills.

Tipping in the Galapagos Islands

The amount you’re supposed to tip varies, depending on the level of luxury of your cruise, but note that you have to tip both the naturalist guide on board as well as the crew . Amounts range from $140 to $250 for a week-long cruise – don’t forget to factor this in when calculating your Galapagos Islands budget.

13 Can you Connect to WiFi in the Galapagos Islands?

If you visit the Galapagos Islands on a cruise, you most likely will be offline the entire time. Even though I had an Ecuadorian SIM card, I did NOT have reception on the boat about 90% of the time, and my SkyRoam wifi hotspot didn’t work in Ecuador.

14 A Tour Guide Is Obligatory when visiting the Galapagos Islands

15 Packing Essentials for the Galapagos Islands

The good thing is that you’re only allowed one checked bag and one carry-on bag on flights to the Galápagos Islands, so you can’t overpack. As far as things to know before visiting the Galapagos Islands go, packing essentials can make or break your trip.

Don’t worry too much about buying special gear or outfits for the trip – remember that many people visit the Galapagos Islands while they’re touring all of South America, only carrying a backpack for a twelve-month trip. I visited the Galápagos Islands as part of a three-month trip through Latin America, so I also didn’t have much space to spare for specialty items, but here is what I bought particularly for my Galápagos Islands cruise:

Underwater Camera – I watched Nomadic Boys ’ underwater footage from their Galapagos trip before I left on my trip and decided I needed to be able to film underwater, too. I felt like I’d miss out not having an underwater camera. Since I wasn’t sure to what extent I’d use the camera beyond the snorkeling trips on the Galápagos Islands, I didn’t want to invest in a GoPro, and I am glad I didn’t.

If you don’t want to deal with getting in and out of a wetsuit but prefer to snorkel in swim gear, you might want to pack a long-sleeve swim shirt with UV protection to avoid getting sunburnt.

Sandals – For me, my flip flops were sufficient, but be aware that the outdoor floors on the boat are often slippery. If you feel more comfortable doing the wet landings (getting in and out of the dinghy in knee-deep water) in shoes, I recommend waterproof sandals or some sturdy Teva’s. (I did them barefoot and it was fine).

Windbreaker – This is especially important if you visit the Galapagos Islands between June and December, the so-called ‘wet season’, when cool winds occur regularly. I personally love my Columbia windbreaker/rain jacket, and this was the only jacket I brought on the trip, btw.

Camera with Zoom Lens – Many of my fellow passengers on the boat told me during the trip that they regretted not having bought an additional zoom lens for the trip, and that it was one of the things to know about the Galapagos Island that they weren’t aware of. I was beyond grateful that I had packed my 300mm wildlife zoom lens. 300mm is not a lot, but it made a huge difference in the pictures I was able to get throughout the trip.

Waterproof Bag – When we took the dinghy to go on land excursions, I always packed my camera and phone in my waterproof bag to keep them dry. I did the same when we went on snorkeling excursions and I brought my (non-waterproof) dSLR camera to snap some pictures above water. With the waterproof bag, I could just leave it on the dinghy while we were snorkeling without having to worry about the camera getting wet.

Reusable Water Bottle – The authorities have very strict laws in place to protect the environment on the Galapagos Islands. Bring a reusable water bottle to keep your carbon footprint to a minimum. The boats usually provide drinking water which you can fill in your bottle.

Motion Sickness Pills – If you are prone to seasickness, pack some Dramamine or even a Seaband wristband . Better safe than sorry! See above for more information on seasickness during a Galapagos Islands cruise.

First Aid Kit – If you’re visiting the Galapagos Islands on a cruise, remember that you’re on a boat with limited access to pharmacies and medical care. I recommend packing pain killers such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol, diarrhea medicine, and Pepto-Bismol, if you have a sensitive tummy. Pack some band aids in case you cut yourself on an underwater rock, an antiseptic, and everything you usually have in your first aid kit.

Padlock – If you are on a boat where you share the cabin with a stranger, you might want to bring a padlock to be able to lock your valuables in your suitcase.

And Last But not Least: Travel Insurance

Got any questions that I didn’t answer in this article? Ask away in the comments!

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Sunday 19th of November 2023

Thank you! This was very informative.

Tuesday 26th of July 2022

Can you share your itinerary or source for booking your trip? Sounds exactly what I want to book for my daughter and family for her graduation of college.

The 30 Something Backpackers

Tuesday 19th of September 2017

Great post! Those turtles are huge!!! The Galapagos Islands have been on our travel list for a long time as we're huge wildlife fans. We swam with whale sharks and sea turtles in the Philippines earlier this year, and were lucky enough to go to the Amazon (you can read about our adventure on our blog www.the30somethingbackpackers.com) which was such an amazing experience but the Galapagos would be the holy grail! Really useful tips and love your photos :)

Travel Blog

Galapagos Islands Travel: How to visit Galapagos on your own [with map]. Best tours, beaches and places to see

Whenever we were asked about our favorite destination we never knew what to answer because they are all special in some way. It’s clearer to us now. It will be difficult to find something even better than the Galapagos Islands . The 15 days we spent there were full of constant amazement, of salty peace, and of almost childish excitement.

We shared a beach with sea ​​lions , swam with penguins , walked with giant tortoises, strolled through flamingo lagoons, dived under lava tunnels among thousand-colored fish, and stepped on an active volcano. These islands are a unique place in the world and we wanted to make the most of each day.

Let us tell you: fulfilling this dream without going bankrupt is not easy, so if you also want to explore the enchanted islands on your own in the cheapest way, this is your guide. You will find all the necessary information to prepare for your trip to the Galapagos : what to do on each island, the best tours , how to get there and how to move between islands , where to sleep, how many days to spend, the best time to go, etc.

Update April 2023: get to know the current rules and requirements to visit Galapagos islands during the Covid-19 pandemic here

Galapagos Islands: basic facts

What is the best time to visit galapagos, do i need a visa to visit galapagos / ecuador, where are the galapagos islands what country are galapagos islands part of, galapagos and covid-19: new requirements, rules, and protocols to visit the islands in 2021, precautions, prohibited items and specific controls before boarding the plane to galapagos, what vaccinations are mandatory to travel to galapagos, do i need travel insurance to travel to galapagos, entrance to the galapagos national park and taxes, how many days should i stay in galapagos, a cruise or a diy/island hopping trip which one is better, which galapagos island is the best to visit, a brief introduction to galapagos, playa oro (gold beach), playa mann (mann beach), playa lobería (lobería beach), cerro tijeretas and punta carola, malecon of puerto baquerizo, kicker rock tour (león dormido), tour to española island.

• Punta Pitt Tour

Tour to Isla Lobos

Laguna del junco (junco lagoon), galapaguera of cerro colorado, puerto chino beach, where to stay in san cristóbal, where to eat in san cristóbal, how to get to san cristóbal from the airport, map with places to see in san cristóbal, instagram stories of san cristóbal, bahía tortuga (tortuga bay), laguna de las ninfas (nymphs lagoon).

• Las Grietas

Darwin Research Station (don’t go to visit the turtles) and La Ratonera Beach

Malecon of puerto ayora.

• Bartolomé Island Tour
• Santa Fe Island Tour
• Pinzón Island Tour

North Seymour Island Tour

• Floreana Island Tour
• Plazas Sur Tour
• Sombrero Chino Island Tour

Tour to Islote Loberia and Playa de los Perros

Tour by taxi to the highlands of santa cruz, where to stay in santa cruz, where to eat in santa cruz, how to get to the seymour (baltra) airport of santa cruz and vice versa, map with places to see in santa cruz, instagram stories of santa cruz, puerto villamil’s main beach, concha perla, laguna de los flamencos (flamingos lagoon), route to the wall of tears, main square, cabo rosa tunnels tour.

• Sierra Negra Volcano Tour
• Tintoreras Islet Tour

Isla Tortuga (Turtle Island) Tour

Where to stay in isabela, where to eat in isabela, how to get to isabela, puerto villamil, map with places to see in isabela, isabela instagram stories, factors to consider for diving in galapagos, types of diving tours, best dive spots in galapagos, what are the best galapagos islands tours, how to organize the days and tours, 3 to 5 days galapagos itineraries (less than 1 week), 7 days galapagos itineraries (1 week), 14 days galapagos itinerary (2 weeks), boats between islands in galapagos: timetables and prices, flights between islands in galapagos: timetables and prices, how to move within each island, currency and money, galapagos budget estimation. is galapagos expensive, safety: precautions, prohibitions, and advice in galapagos, plugs and sockets in galapagos: do i need to bring a travel adapter, mobile phone calls and internet in galapagos with a local sim card, checklist: what to carry in the backpack/suitcase for galapagos, so… knowing all this, is it worth going to the galapagos.

The Galapagos Islands have been a protected National Park since 1959, with specific rules to abide by. For example, you cannot be closer than 2 meters from the animals. These are all the rules . Number of islands : 18 main islands (those with more than 1 km2) and several islets. Of those, 3 are the most populated and where you can base yourself to explore the rest: Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, and Isabela. Currency : Dollar (USD). Be careful, neither ATMs nor paying by card are common in the Galapagos, so prepare to carry lots of cash with you. More information is in this section . Daily budget : Expensive. It will depend on whether you travel on your own, on a cruise, and also your style of travel: you can get a sense of how much it costs us and how much it can cost you here. Climate : Pleasant all year round and quite unpredictable. More information about the best times to visit the Galapagos Islands here. Language : Spanish (the Galapagos belong to Ecuador). Population : 25,000 people. The population is controlled and, as much as you fall in love with the islands, you will not be able to stay and live there, only if you are a descendant of a resident or if you marry someone from the Galapagos Time zone : Time zone in Galapagos is GMT-6 Tips : included in the bill (usually 10%) but optional (you can ask to have it removed, although it is normal to leave it) Prepaid mobile internet price : $10 for 2GB with Claro. You can get an Ecuador eSIM at Holafly , and enjoy up to a 5% discount using the coupon “RANDOMTRIP”. More information about how to get a local SIM card here

Organizing a trip to Galapagos

Although you can visit the Galapagos without organizing much and deciding on the go (something that we love to do), we recommend you to organize the trip a little bit before buying your flights , since unless you have unlimited days and budget, you will have to make many decisions based on those factors in order to make the most of your trip.

The first thing is to find out, depending on the days you have, what things are you most interested in, both because of the probability of seeing different animal species and for the weather. With that information, you can choose which island would be the most interesting for you to use as a base, or perhaps, just like us, you have time to explore and use the 3 main ones as a base: San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Isabela.

From each island, you will do different boat tours, as many of the impressive sites will be a short boat ride away, so it’s equally important to decide what tours you want to do. We collaborated with Chokotrip to do some of the tours. The owner, Christian, knows a lot about Galapagos. He tested himself and works directly with different tour operators, and you can book the tours online on his website . That way you won’t need to take so much cash to the islands (remember, there are few ATMs in Galapagos, no guarantee that they will work all the time and most of the operators charge big fees if you want to pay with credit/debit cards).

Following are some of the questions we asked ourselves when planning this trip, that will probably help you prepare yours too.

We read it everywhere and can confirm it: there is no bad time to go to the Galapagos . Whatever the month, you will find wonderful fauna and flora and a rather unpredictable climate.

Anyway, there are 3 factors that can influence your decision:

• High tourist seasons : prices rise, most famous tours sell out faster, there are more people. They concur with the typical holiday periods: Christmas (December and January), Easter, and summer (June to August)
• December to May : during this time, it is hotter, the sky is usually clear and there are usually sporadic heavy rains. (Although we went for 2 weeks in March and it didn’t rain for a single day!). The sea is calmer and the water temperature is ideal for diving (if you don’t like cold water like Inês, this is the best time hahaha).
• June to December : during this time, it is cooler, there are usually clouds in the sky and it does not rain. The sea is rougher and the water temperature drops considerably (but many animals prefer cool water so you will probably also find more marine life)
• Fauna and flora : depending on the above, the fauna and flora that you are going to find will vary depending on the month of the year, so if you have a particular interest in something, it is better to anticipate it to match the dates.

Conclusion: every month has its advantages and disadvantages in Galapagos, and there is no bad month to visit the islands. In our case, we traveled in March and we loved it (very hot to enjoy the beach and not a single rainy day in 2 weeks).

Most countries do not need to manage the visa in advance or pay anything, since they receive 90 days free when entering the country. That was our case, with Spanish (Chris) and Portuguese (Inês) passports. The passport must be valid for 6 months or more to enter Ecuador.

Ideally, you should check if you need a visa according to your country of origin at the competent authority. For example, if you are from the US you can check it here (Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements section) , and if you are from the UK you can check it here

Where are the Galapagos Islands ? What country are Galapagos Islands part of?

The Galapagos islands are located about 1000km west of continental Ecuador, in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The Galapagos Islands have belonged to Ecuador since 1832.

How to get to the Galapagos? Flights to Galapagos islands

To get to the Galapagos, you must fly from Quito or Guayaquil (Ecuador). We read that flights tend to be cheaper from Guayaquil. So the first thing is to find a flight from where you live (or other options if you live in or near Ecuador) to Ecuador. We recommend that you use rate comparators such as Skyscanner or Kiwi , which compare the prices of many companies and allow you to create alerts.

Which airlines fly to Galapagos, and what are the airports in Galapagos?

There are several airlines that fly to the Galapagos, from Quito and from Guayaquil : Avianca , Latam and Aeroregional . The best way to find a cheap flight is to compare all the companies (as we said you can use Skyscanner or Kiwi ) and if possible, have some flexibility with the dates (when we looked for flights there were differences of up to $300 from one day to the next!).

In the Galapagos Islands there are two main airports : Baltra (next to the island of Santa Cruz) and San Cristóbal. Another way to save money is to buy the outbound flight to one island and the return flight from another , since it is not necessarily more expensive and you save a boat trip between islands (which costs $30).

In our search, the cheapest flights were with Avianca:

• Outbound: Guayaquil -> San Cristóbal
• Return: Baltra (Santa Cruz) -> Guayaquil
• Price: $ 557 / € 491 for 2 people

Ideally, you should book the flights in advance , especially in high season (although we bought them in less than a month and we got a good price). We find the best price in Avianca but as we say, you should always compare. We heard that TAME (a company that no longer exists) is the worst company but we have no experience of our own.

We flew to San Cristóbal and returned from Santa Cruz, Baltra, and the flight cost us the minimum that you can supposedly find for foreigners: $ 279 (€ 245) due to our flexibility of dates, in March. In Latam and TAME the same flight on the same dates was $ 400 per person.

It’s possible to visit the Galapagos islands normally. Since February 2023, most rules regarding COVID-19 no longer apply (it’s no longer a requirement to complete the health document and it’s no longer mandatory to use masks). Anyway, rules can change over time so we recommend you check them before you travel in this post from Chokotrip and on the official tourism website of Ecuador

It’s also a good idea to hire health insurance (we recommend the one from IATI, which you can buy with a 5% discount using this link )

To access the Galapagos National Park everything is quite controlled . There is a specific control at the airport before check-in and after passing the usual security controls . The “Agencia de Regulación y Control de la Bioseguridad y Cuarentena para Galápagos” will inspect your backpack/suitcase to verify that you do not carry prohibited items, that is, to verify that you are not going to introduce foreign items into a protected ecosystem (for example, they will check if the sole of your shoes is clean and they remarked that we cannot carry any seeds in the backpack). You can check which items are prohibited in the list on the official website .

After inspecting, they will seal the backpack/suitcase that you will check in so that it can not be opened until you land in Galapagos. The handbags are not sealed. It is at this time that you will have to pay the first $ 20 for your TST (Transit Control Card) to enter the national park. Later you will have to pay more when landing on the islands, you can read how much here

Before landing in the National Park, the aircraft cabin will be fumigated to remove any organisms that may be outside the scope of the pre-inspection.

Upon arrival, there are a series of protection and security measures that you will have to comply with, as mentioned in this section .

There is no compulsory vaccination to travel to Galapagos, except for the yellow fever vaccine if you come from or are going to any of the following countries: Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and Brazil. In any case, although it is not mandatory, it is recommended.

The best thing whenever you travel is that you go to the international vaccination center in your country, with enough time in advance to indicate what your trip to Ecuador and Galapagos will be like and tell you which vaccinations they recommend you.

We always recommend traveling with travel insurance , to avoid having to pay out of your pocket hundreds or thousands of dollars in the unfortunate event that something happens to you. We always travel with IATI Se guros and we can recommend it, since with IATI you do not need to pay anything (they are in charge of sending you to a hospital or medical center in which they have collaboration agreements ). For our #randomLatam trip, we hired the IATI Estrella Premium, which is the one that offers the most coverage. If you hire your IATI insurance through this link you will have a 5% discount

Inês also has diving insurance . As we travel for several months each year, she hired the AxaSub one and she is very happy with it. If your trips are shorter, that is, if you only dive during your vacations once or several times a year, the ExtraSub is also a good option.

One thing that surprised us very positively is that in Ecuador the public health system will attend you for free even if you do not have travel insurance: we checked it ourselves in Galapagos, since Inês had visited a doctor after her first dive and it was completely free. Still, we also recommend that you hire travel insurance for other things that may happen to you (for example a robbery) or if you need anything specific that may be better in a private hospital.

To enter the Galapagos National Park as a foreigner you must pay $ 100 of fees + $ 20 for the TCT (Transit Control Card )

You will pay the $ 20 / person for the TST at the post of the National Institute of the Galapagos at the airport of Guayaquil or Quito. Beware! You must keep the traffic control card until you leave Galapagos, do not lose it!

You will pay the $ 100 / person fee upon arrival at the Park, at the airport of San Cristóbal or Baltra (Santa Cruz) and you must pay it in cash, so don’t forget to bring enough cash from the mainland.

Instead of that $ 100, the national citizens of Ecuador must pay $ 6, and the citizens of the Andean Community and Mercosur must pay $ 50.

In addition, to enter Isabela Island, an additional $ 10 “municipal tax” must be paid to enter the island. Why, if you already pay $ 100 to enter? Well, we asked and nobody knew what to answer …

Probably for being one of our favorite destinations in the world, we would say that it pays off to go even for just a long weekend (a very expensive weekend, though). But being realistic, honest, and aware of the ecological footprint of getting there and the luxury and privilege of being able to set foot on these protected islands, in our opinion you should spend at least one week in Galapagos. If you can stay longer, you will not regret it: the list of places and experiences in this paradise is endless, even without doing tours.

As one of the most expensive parts of the trip is the flight and the entrance/tax for foreigners (you will easily spend between 400 and 500 $ / person on those two), and the accommodation is not much more expensive than in the rest of Ecuador, it’s better to spend more days and, if you want to save some money, do some of the free or cheap activities that can be done without a tour on each of the islands.

Before going, we had defined that we would spend at least one week, and in the end, we spent two weeks. 2 very complete weeks in which we did almost all the tours we wanted but, even so, it felt like not enough. We would love to have stayed a few more days in Isabela and San Cristobal, without tours.

As a curiosity, if you fall in love with the islands as much as we do and you want to stay living there, you cannot. To live in Galapagos you have to be a descendant of a resident or marry someone from Galapagos.

As in everything in this life, there are advantages and disadvantages in both modalities . We told you that we have never been seduced by cruises, so from the start this modality had fewer ballots, but here is a list of the pros and cons that we have been able to find out.

• More expensive . From our research, the cheapest cruises usually cost about $ 1,000 / person for 4 days, up to $ 3000 or $ 4000 for better boats or more days. This price does not include flights or entrance and taxes for visiting the Galapagos. In theory, you can get a cheaper price if you negotiate the cruise while already on the islands, contracts from Quito and Guayaquil are more expensive. You can book your 4-8 day cruise here or a cheaper last-minute cruise here .
• Everything is pre-defined and there is no room for improvisation (good or bad depending on what you want)
• You don’t worry about anything, since everything is included : meals, room, tours …
• Depending on the cruise, the duration, and the route, you can visit sites that are only accessible by cruise .
• Cheaper (buying flights in advance, negotiating tours with various companies, choosing a hostel to stay in, eating locally, or cooking …)
• You choose what to do, when, where, and with whom : you choose the tours, the dates, the islands to be in, the time you want to dedicate to each place, the accommodation to stay based on your budget, etc.
• More contact with local people . You will get to know Galapagos more closely, apart from their fauna and flora. How local people live, what foods are more typical there, understand how tourism affects them there and what impact it has …
• There are things you can do for free (go to the beach to spend the day among sea lions and flamingos; explore the island by bike – almost free, etc, …)

Depending on your budget and travel style, one or the other modality will be more adjusted to your needs. If money is not a problem, you have saved for this unique experience, and do not want to worry about anything, the cruise may be your option. If you are on a tighter budget or you just aren’t seduced by cruises and you like to travel more freely and with the proximity to local people, traveling to the Galapagos without a cruise will also see everything. This last option implies more prior and on-site research.

You can also do a combination of both : travel to the Galapagos for free and take a cruise for a few days; But beware! Sites that are accessible only for cruises are far and only the cruises of more days (and more expensive) go, so this option is not that recommended.

There are 3 main islands that you can explore on your own and from which the different tours depart: San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Isabela . Each one has its particularities and all of them are interesting. In our opinion, in Galapagos there is nothing “expendable”, you will have to define priorities …

• San Cristóbal has an airport (a small one, 15-minute walk from Puerto Baquerizo, the main town) and has one of the most famous Galapagos tours: León Dormido (Kicker Rock) . It was the first island we visited and it is where we would recommend you start. It’s the island of the sea lions (really, sea lions are everywhere in San Cristobal) and it’s much smaller, quieter and more authentic than Santa Cruz. In our opinion, it is the best appetizer for what you are going to experience later.
• Santa Cruz is the most populated island, the one with more construction and the best location to visit the other islands (it is in the center). From this island, you can do the tour to one of the most famous postcards of Galapagos: Bartolomé Island . It is the island that has more tourist facilities (accommodation, shops, restaurants) and it has the largest airport in the archipelago (in Baltra, an island that is right next to Santa Cruz). Having some of the most famous tours and many activities to do on your own, it can be a good option if you have few days to visit Galapagos
• Isabela is the largest but the least populated island. It hides many gems around its 6 volcanoes, 5 of which are active. It’s our favorite island in Galapagos, especially for the island itself and the plans you can do on your own there. Stepping on the active Sierra Negra volcano or swimming underneath the Cabo Rosa lava tunnels were two incredible tours. It is the least paved island, the calmest one, and the one where you can enjoy incredible sunsets on the beach, next to your accommodation, accompanied by some “chifles” (banana fried chips).

Although we have our favorite one, there is no better island. Ideally, you’ll decide what tours/fauna/flora you are more interested in and, based on that, which island or islands are better for those tours. We have found this information scattered over the internet, so based on what we have learned and our own experience we have grouped it here for you.

In the itineraries section we have suggestions for different routes depending on the amount of days you have, and give you tricks to organize your trip to the Galapagos.

Things to do in Galapagos

Here is a summary of everything Galapagos has to offer, organized around its main 3 islands: San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Isabela . Get ready because it is full of surprises and in 2 weeks we did not have enough time (nor dollars) to see everything we wanted; so if you go a few days, you will have to choose!

Galapagos Islands Map

Here is a map with all the interesting places in Galapagos that we talk about in this guide, on Google Maps so you can have it on your smartphone to check at any time (left: Isabela; Center: Santa Cruz; Right: San Cristóbal)

Here is an official map of the Galapagos Islands , you can download the map with a bigger resolution here .

The Galapagos Islands are part of the country of Ecuador (in South America), and they are located off the coast of Ecuador (926km to the east), in the eastern Pacific Ocean.

Here you can easily locate the Galapagos islands on a map

The first thing that came to our minds when hearing “Galapagos” is Charles Darwin and his Theory of the Evolution of Species , as it was precisely there that the naturalist arrived in 1835 on board of the HMS Beagle and began to write down his observations of these unique islands, that would be reflected in the book that completely changed our knowledge of the natural world, “ The Origin of Species ” published in 1859. While in Galapagos, Darwin found that living beings are not stable, but adapt to the changing conditions of their environment to ensure the survival of its species, revolutionizing the natural sciences with his theory of natural selection.

An endemic turtle, in the Galapaguera (San Cristóbal)

The Galapagos archipelago has been protected since 1959 , when the National Park was created, and the park was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1978. It has 18 main islands (with more than 1 km2) in addition to many small islets.

Galapagos Islands have a volcanic origin : in theory they appeared about 14 million years ago in the Pacific Ocean because at this “ hot spot” , magma from within the earth gushes to the surface, forming volcanoes. For example, Isabela Island has 5 currently active volcanoes.

The islands move towards the South American continent about 4 cm a year. This means that the oldest islands are on the right side (on the east) and the newer ones on the left side (on the west). In other words, the “hot spot” that “ejects islands” is fixed and the islands move to the right. Nowadays the most recent island is just above the hot spot: Fernandina Island.

Galapagos Islands were originally inhospitable masses of volcanic lava. In theory, there were several factors that led to the explosion of biodiversity on the islands. Mountains are said to have interacted with the atmosphere, forming rains that eroded and generated soil. The winds and the birds brought seeds and spores here. In addition, the islands are located right in the middle of a fast cold water ocean current (more than 1 meter per second at 100 meters depth) called Humboldt, which comes from Antarctica towards the north; when the current collides with the islands it pushes up the colder water full of nutrients ( more information here ). These are the main reasons that make Galapagos Islands one of the most biodiverse places in the planet.

Our days in Galapagos were ones of constant learning, as if we were living inside a documentary. We became aware of how the magma hot spot in the center of the earth is spitting out new islands every millions of years, while the species adapt to changing conditions and change themselves. Will sea lions improve their leg-fins in the future to be better crossing roads while still being excellent swimmers?

During our time in the Galapagos, we shared our days almost “live” using the Stories of our Instagram account (by the way, are you already following us?). If you visit here you can see the stories we made as an introduction to the islands.

Things to do in San Cristóbal

San Cristóbal was the first island we visited in Galapagos . For this reason, it has a special place in our memory. We picked up our backpacks at the only arrival belt of the small airport, sealed the transit card that promised us giant tortoises, and walked to the center of Puerto Baquerizo (less than 15 min away). The hot temperature made the asphalt ripple on the horizon and we no longer knew if what we were seeing was real or an animal mirage. As we got closer we checked something we had read so much about: sea ​​lions everywhere. Sleeping in the shade of a tree, stretching in the middle of the road between bikes and some cars, crossing a zebra crossing . We walked a bit more and there were dozens wandering on the beach at sunset. Pelicans fishing, an iguana on top of a rock watching everything quietly and a pair of blue-footed boobies witnessing the scene. Welcome to Galapagos!

San Cristóbal is indeed the island of sea lions. They are like the dogs of the island, but instead of barking, you hear grunts. And a pretty strong smell. Even the most famous tour of the island (and one of the most famous one in Galapagos) uses his name: León Dormido (Kicker Rock) . For these reasons and for being smaller, more authentic and less populated than Santa Cruz, we thing it’s the best island to start your adventure in Galapagos .

Things to do in San Cristóbal on your own (free or very cheap plans)

The beach that is right at the beginning of the boardwalk was the one that gave us the best first memory in Galapagos, with dozens of sea lions at sunset

Come to Playa Oro at sunset and enjoy the show: the silhouettes of the sea lions will move among the orange lights of the sunset while some of they play, the babies are breastfed, sleep or bathe in the sand.

By the way, unfortunately Galapagos sea lions are in danger due to oil spills and deep-sea fishing. Although we saw many babies when we went, biologists believe that in 50 years this species may be found only in San Cristóbal and in less quantity …

The best beach near Puerto Baquerizo where there is also kind of food court: three beach bars where you can eat or have a drink. It is usually more crowded than the other points of the island precisely because of the proximity to the population but it is perfect for ending a day where you can contemplate the sunset or a dip among the young sea lions, as we did in that March afternoon.

As the name suggests, it is a beach where sea ​​lions will accompany you, both roasting in the sun and playing in the water. It is also iguana territory, we saw a few of them. You can walk (approximately 20 minutes from Puerto Baquerizo, with no shade) or by taxi. Taxi takes about 5 minutes and costs around $ 3. You can also negotiate with the taxi to bring you back to town at a certain time, paying around $ 10 round trip.

At the beginning of the trail to get to Playa Lobería there is a kiosk that sells empanadas, water (a large bottle costs $ 2.75) and rents snorkel equipment for $ 5 / day. In Galapagos it is always a good idea to carry snorkel equipment with you, you never know when the see can surprise you. In this same kiosk you can request a taxi to go back if it is open.

Another plan to do in San Cristóbal is a 2-hour walk that begins at the Interpretation Center, passing through Cerro Tijeretas (and Tijeretas viewpoint) and ending in Punta Carola .

We have been told that the Interpretation Center is very interesting, it explains the origin of the islands very well, but we ended up not visiting it. Of course, we loved the trail to the Tijeretas viewpoint, which was named for the amount of “tijeretas” (Frigatebirds) that you can see here. It will take you about 20 minutes through well-indicated trail and in very good condition, among trees, cacti, birds and some spiders (beware of the spider webs on the trail) until you reach the viewpoint and the snorkel area. There is no place there to rent snorkel equipment so you should bring your own or rent it in Puerto Ayora.

On the way back we stopped at Punta Carola beach , a beautiful rocky beach with a lot of sand, few people and, of course!, various sea lions.

The main road of the only town of San Cristóbal is where you can find a large part of the shops, tour agencies, diving centers, some bars where you can enjoy an “Endemic” craft beer and, of course, lots of sea lions.

To find the authenticity that Puerto Baquerizo maintains, away from tourists, all you have to do is to detour in one of the streets perpendicular to the boardwalk.

Best day tours from San Cristóbal

The most famous tour from San Cristóbal and, in our opinion, a must-do is the Tour to the Kicker Rock (in spanish, “León Dormido”). This was the only boat tour we did from San Cristóbal. It is a highly demanded tour and it usually solds out, so we recommend that you book it in advance (we booked it with Chokotrip )

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We swim in the middle of the two imposing volcanic ash rocks whose silhouette reminds us of a sleeping sea lion (“León Dormido”) in the middle of the sea. It is one of the most emblematic places in the Galapagos and these rock formations reach 148 meters high, so imagine looking up from the sea, it’s impressive! The water around the rocks is home to numerous species of fish, sea turtles, rays and hammerhead sharks, so the practice of snorkeling or diving here is amazing (we tell you more about it in the Diving section ). We can assure you that we saw all these species underwater. It is also a refuge for many seabirds such as blue-footed boobies, as well as for sea lions.

Additionally, you will have some time to enjoy a beach that, in our opinion, is one of the most beautiful beaches that we visited not in Galapagos, but in the World: Cerro Brujo Beach, with fine white sand, a sea with different shades of blue and the kicker rock in the background. There is also the possibility that the day you go this stop will be at other beaches, equally paradisiacal, such as Playa Manglecito or Playa Puerto Grande (we did not visit those). Find out which beach you will visit when booking your tour or ask before.

We chose this tour and not the 360 tour (which also includes Leon Dormido ) because in the 360 tour you spend a lot of time on the boat and less time in each place. Appart from that, we were given the possibility of going on the same boat for performing different activities: Inês wanted to dive and Chris wanted to do snorkeling. It was here that Inês saw her first hammerhead shark! Incredible!

Tour duration : from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Snorkeling price : from $ 124 / person

Dive price : from $ 180 / person.

Included : Snorkeling equipment (masks and fins), short wetsuit, life jacket, transport by boat, towel, lunch, guide (certified by the Galapagos National Park) who speaks Spanish and English.

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If you want to do a little of everything, this is your tour. With the 360º tour , as the name suggests, you will make a complete round of San Cristóbal Island and visit Rosa Blanca (a small bay with several beaches whose main attraction is the dunes contrasting with its crystalline waters where you can swim with various species of sharks, rays and sea ​​turtles), Sardina Bay (two beautiful beaches with a lot of marine fauna), Punta Pitt (we’ll tell you about this place in the specific tour later), Cerro Brujo beach and the famous León Dormido .

Tour duration: from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Price : from $ 166 / person.

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This is the only island in the entire Galapagos islands where you can see albatrosses, so if observing this species in its habitat is one of your reasons for visiting the enchanted islands, don’t miss this tour, especially between April and December. If you are not such a fan of albatrosses, keep in mind that this is one of the most expensive tours from San Cristóbal.

Apart from watching the albatrosses, you will take a walk of a couple of hours around Española island with incredible views where you will see lava iguanas, marine iguanas, sea lions, nasca boobies and blue-footed boobies. After that you will have time to rest, bath in the sea and good snorkel on the Gardner islet.

Tour duration: from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Price : from $ 219 / person.

Included : Snorkeling equipment (masks and fins), short wetsuit, life jacket, transport by boat, towel, lunch, snack, guide (certified by the Galapagos National Park) who speaks Spanish and English.

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Punta Pitt will offer you something similar to Bartolomé Island (we will tell you about it later on the list of tours from Santa Cruz), a 1-hour walk with landscapes from another planet where you will greet blue-footed and red-footed boobies. And, of course, snorkelling in the Pitt Islet among fish, sea lions, sea turtles and corals.

Tour duration: from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Price : from $ 176 / person.

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You also have the possibility of going to the Natural Galapaguera of the island, being this variation of the tour more expensive and the trekking harder with a duration of 3 hours (instead of 1 hour). You will also end up snorkeling but before that you will have seen how the giant tortoises have survived in their habitat.

Price : from $ 198 / person.

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The island of Lobos is just 25 minutes by boat from Puerto Baquerizo, so if you want to be very close to blue-legged calves, frigatebirds and sea lions in their natural habitat on a half-day tour, this is your choice.

Tour duration: from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Price: from $ 105 / person.

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Tour by taxi to the highlands

To get to know the highlands of the island of San Cristóbal, you will need a car. There are taxis in town that do this tour, so you should stop any of them and negotiate the tour. There are 4 stops (it takes half a day / about 4 hours, depending on the time you are in each place): Laguna del Junco, Galapaguera, Puerto Chino Beach and the Tree House.

To do this tour, the taxi will cost you around $ 60, so ideally there should be 4 people to share the taxi. If you are 2 people like us, you can find partners at your accommodation or at the tourism office. Right there, near the San Cristóbal tourism office is where you can catch taxis and negotiate.

Tour duration: 4 hours, leaving any time you want.

Price : from 60 $ in total to be split among a maximum of 4 people

Included : Taxi and its driver stopping in 4 places; Lunch and any equipment are not included.

Following, the places where you will stop

After climbing for about 10 minutes, you will contemplate the views of this impressive volcanic freshwater lagoon , responsible for supplying drinking water to the entire island.

When we arrived a few frigatebirds were flying over the lagoon. The males of the magnificent frigatebirds can be identified by their pink gular pouch, which turns red and gets inflated in periods of reproduction.

Galapagos frigatefird. Photo AussieActive

If it is cloudy when you arrive (something normal), ask the taxi driver to leave it for the return trip. We did it that way and, at that time, we enjoyed it alone and with sunny weather.

The second stop will be Galapaguera where you can see giant tortoises in the wild and also see a few tiny ones in the hatchery (in the Jacinto Gordillo breeding laboratory). The San Cristóbal giant tortoise is endemic , that is, you can only find it in freedom here, and it is in danger of extinction . The hatchery is made to preserve the species and improve the land turtle population on the island: when they lay eggs, they are immediately collected for artificial incubation. The little turtles that are born are cared for in captivity until they are 5 years old, at which time they are repatriated to their natural habitat. The scientific community still does not know 100% how long these turtles live but they say that more than 100 years for sure.

Remember to always respect the rules of the park, the distance of the animals and just observe, do not touch!

One of the best beaches for surfing in San Cristobal, hopefully you will meet some turtle and some sea lions while swimming. We were so amazed by the beauty of this beach that we asked the driver to spend more time here and avoid the last stop (La casa del árbol), where you can apparently, eat local food from Galapagos. We decided to enjoy more the beautiful Playa Puerto Chino accompanied by a few pelicans and boobies. In the afternoon, after the tour, we went to Lobería beach. We asked the taxi driver, Ángel, to drop us off at the beach, and so he did (very nice of him)

This beach (Puerto Chino) earned the second place on the best San Cristóbal beaches (we enjoyed the first one on the tour to León Dormido, Cerro Brujo beach).

We wanted our accommodation to be in Puerto Baquerizo , with a kitchen to save some money. There are lots of options of this kind, just check this link.

Another aspect that we look at when looking for accommodation specifically in the Galapagos is that it includes free filtered water, since in the islands tap water is not drinkable for any type of consumption. Do not be surprised if the Galapagos accommodations seem expensive to you compared to the quality and the prices of the rest of Ecuador; they are. What you have to keep in mind is that you are inside a Natural Park and just being here is already a privilege, so it’s normal that accommodation is a bit more expensive.

We finally found a room that met our requirements, apart from the free filtered water: less than 50$/night, simple but comfortable, air conditioning, hot water and kitchen (shared kitchen in our case although there was never anyone using it except us). The arrival process was smooth and, very important, included free cold filtered water. The location is near the stadium, about 10 min walk from the center of the town.

There are  several options to stay in San Cristóbal, from the most high-end to the cheapest . While we were there we noted down some options that seemed great to us as an alternative to ours, for other types of budgets.

If you are looking for something dreamy, the Galapagos Sunset Hotel ($ 190 / night) was one of the best looking places, both for the location (right in the center, one step away from the port to go on tours and next to the beach for relax) as for the views from the room. The breakfasts, by the photos, also look really nice:

Another similar option can be found in this room with a terrace facing Mann Beach ($ 192 / night) you can greet the sea lions as soon as they wake up:

Or this other option, much cheaper but with nice views also, Dolphin House ($ 50 / night):

If none of these options convince you, here you can check more options:

Find your accommodation in San Cristóbal

We cooked most of our dinners at home. However, for lunch we took sandwiches or ate out and one night we treated ourselves with a dinner out. This is what we tried and can recommend.

In the central market of San Cristobal we ate the day we went to the highlands of the island by taxi. Upon returning from the tour, we asked our driver to stop in the central market to order a packed lunch. There are several stalls with local food, and a typical lunch costs $ 4.

We had dinner at Giuseppe’s one night. It is known for its pastas, pizzas, and burgers. We chose a carbonara and a tuna burger, and two ice teas to drink, and paid $ 30.

In Playa Mann there are a couple of beach bars with “almuerzo del día” (meal of the day) for $ 5 (soup, main course and juice), only main course and juice costs $ 4. They have very tasty juices for $ 3 each.

If you want to have a beer, you can buy them cold at the malecon shops for $ 1.75 and enjoy it wherever you want. In any of the bars it will cost you $3 or $4. Craft beer from Galapagos (La Endemica) costs the same at the bar and in the store.

We also had a coffee at Fresco Café ($ 2.5 for an espresso).

The airport is a 15-minute walk from the only town on the island, Puerto Baquerizo. When we arrived by plane, we decided to just walk to the town with our backpacks. If you prefer not to walk you can go by taxi , it will cost you approximately 1.5 $. Taxis are waiting outside the airport, at the only exit, on the only street you will see.

The airport is very small, there are no multiple departures or several baggage claim tapes so you can’t get lost

This Google Maps map has all the places of San Cristóbal mentioned in this guide so you can take it with you on your smartphone:

If you are curious, you can see a briefing of what we did in San Cristóbal, entering here .

Things to do in Santa Cruz

The most paved and populated island in the Galapagos is by far the most touristy without losing its essence from Galapagos, especially if we move away from Charles Darwin Avenue. It is the most visited island, the one where most nationals arrive to and the best one in terms of location to know the other islands. It is Santa Cruz that more tours depart from, and also the one that offers many plans to do on your own and for free. If you have few days to visit the National Park, this is great option.

Things to do in Santa Cruz on your own (free or very cheap plans)

The beautiful beach of Bahía Tortuga can be reached walking from the center of Puerto Ayora in about 30 minutes. Half an hour to go and another half an hour to return. If you prefer, you can go by boat for $ 20 / person (round trip) from Puerto Ayora or walk and return by boat for $ 10 / person.

In Tortuga Bay there are no services, so bring water and something to eat. It is a very beautiful walk (you will have to write down your name when accessing the trail, and again when you return) where the birds sing and some iguanas greet you. Of course, there are no shadows so don’t forget a hat and sunscreen. When you start to sweat a lot, you’ll see that the turquoise blue in the background will present itself to you as the “light at the end of the tunnel.”

Upon arrival we find a beautiful beach where bathing is not allowed, Playa Brava . If you surf, this is a nice place but for swimming you have to continue walking to Playa Mansa . We arrived at Playa Mansa, a white sand beach with a calm turquoise sea, perfect for kayaking (you can rent a kayak for $ 10) or snorkel (don’t forget to bring your own snorkeling gear or renting it in Puerto Ayora). Several iguanas accompanied us on the beach and when Inês approached the mangrove she saw a few small sharks , as the roots of the mangroves are full of nutrients and this is where some animals are concentrated. You may also see turtles.

When returning from Tortuga Bay you can enter the world of mangroves around the Laguna de las Ninfas and enjoy the peace and the soundtrack of the little birds. The walkway that you will walk to reach the lagoon says it: «Listen to the silence».

The mangroves are a very important element in the ecosystem of marine life of Santa Cruz and one of the most characteristic images of the landscape of Galapagos. This estuary (which apparently is formed by the daily encounter of the salty sea water that rises and the fresh water of the cracks that falls) has a unique ecosystem and, being so close to Puerto Ayora, is worth a visit. Of course, as much as you feel like swimming, bathing is not allowed . You can stroll around the lagoon, it will take about 20 minutes , and learn through the many panels with curiosities about mangroves. The lagoon closes at 6pm.

Another plan in Santa Cruz is to take your snorkeling gear and go swimming and snorkeling between volcanic rocks in Las Grietas.

To get there you must first take a short boat trip ($ 0.80 per person each way) from Puerto Ayora, the journey takes 3 minutes (you just have to go to the pier and ask the people there you for “Las Grietas”). After the boat trip, you’ll have a 20-minute walk between incredible inhospitable landscapes and huge cacti. There is only one place to buy water on the way. If you want to swim before arriving at Las Grietas, you can do it at the Playa de los Alemanes, a beautiful little beach among mangroves with crystal clear water. Along the way you will also pass by some natural salt flats created by the sea water.

When you get to Las Grietas you will understand why it is an essential thing to do on your own in Santa Cruz. This impressive geological formation has been formed by a fault that allows fresh water and salt water to mix, forming this curious place . The salinity of the water depends on the tide and the rains of the previous days.

There is not a lot of marine fauna (we have not seen much beyond some colorful fish), but the place stands out for the impressive color of the water and the incredible visibility . It is amazing to be swimming in the middle of the giant walls of these rock formations and look at them from below … and also appreciate them from above, on the Bay Trail!

Remember to take your snorkel gear ! If you do not have it, you can rent it from the diving companies that you will see in Puerto Ayora

Getting to the Bay trail is very easy, just follow the short path that is indicated at the exit of Las Grietas.

The best time to go to Las Grietas is when the sun is very high and right above them, at noon. The problem is that everyone wants to go at that times so there is a crowd of lots of people at the entrance. The trick: go swimming until the end so your fin doesn’t touch anyone.

If they have told you about being able to see the turtles at the Charles Darwin Research Station on the island, we can tell you that we did not go and we recommend you not to go. One of the authorized guides of the Galapagos National Park that we met in one of the previous days told us that they keep the turtles in captivity and it is more like a circus, something that contradicts what is promoted in the Park: sustainable and responsible tourism, respectful of all its inhabitants, people and animals.

As you know, in our blog we advocate for traveling responsibly and denouncing any activity that involves animal abuse, so if you want to know more about the history of the famous Galapagos tortoises, their discovery and evolution, you can do it in El Chato (more about it below in this same post) but not here where they keep turtles in captivity.

We do recommend that you visit the rest of the Darwin Research Station , where you can learn about the formation of the islands as well as the species that inhabit it.

On the other hand, there is a small path at the end of the Charles Darwin Station that leads to a beach called La Ratonera . If the iguanas let you pass (Chris tried to go the day that Inês went to dive to Gordons Rock and he couldn’t pass because lots of Iguanas were blocking the trail), it’s a nice beach.

It is the most bustling area of ​​Puerto Ayora, where you can contemplate the daily life of the local people and the busy fishermen working on the quay, bringing fresh fish for the market. You will see many pelicans and fewer sea lions than in San Cristóbal but in the port there are always some others resting in the sun … or in the shade.

In the port, at sunset, come closer and look down: you will see a lot of white tip sharks in the sea at their dinner time. Galapagos never ceases to amaze you, even in their urban centers.

Best day tours from Santa Cruz

This is the tour where you can please yourself with the famous Galapagos postcard , with its two beaches and the famous pinnacle , which you will see in many places promoting the archipelago:

Bartolome Island is one of the youngest islands in Galapagos . Its name comes from Darwin’s naturalist and friend, David Bartolomew, who was the lieutenant on board the HMS Beagle, the ship on which the famous expedition was made, from which the notes that preceded the book “The Origin of Species” come from. It is an extinct volcano and such an emblematic place because it represents what all the Galapagos islands were many years ago: the origin is volcanic, with few species that are capable of surviving in these types of conditions, especially with the lack of water.

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During the visit to the island (which, like most, can only be visited on a tour, and this one is also one of the most expensive day tours ) the authorized guide from the park makes a detailed explanation of the geological origin of the islands that we have already explainerd you in the introduction of this post . Do you remember the hot spot that is expelling islands which then move to the right?

The incredible landscapes of Bartolome are enough to make you feel that the tour is totally worth it. They say this landscapes are among the most beautiful ones in Galapagos and we agree.

After learning a lot, climbing a few steps, enjoying amazing views, seeing boobies, frigatebirds and even two sea turtles copulating (it’s a bit violent!) we went to the water to do snorkeling and something incredible happened: we saw our first Galapagos penguins ! Initially they were so calm sunbathing on top of a rock and suddenly they plunged into the water without caring that we were there. It is because moments like these that Galapagos won the first place in our traveling hearts.

Although this is one of the most expensive day tours in Galapagos, it usually runs out, so we advise you to book in advance . It is also one of the tours where you spend most of the time on the boat due to the distance from Santa Cruz (2h30 one way and 2h30 return), and you have to add 30-45min more as the boats do not depart from Puerto Ayora but from the Itabaca Canal. The good thing is that during the boat trip you will appreciate the landscape and the fauna. We saw lots of endemic birds, turtles, and even two manta rays jumping!

Tour duration: from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or from 07:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Price : from $ 230 / person (can be something more or something less, depending on the boat).

Included : Ground transportation (45 minutes to the Itabaca channel), snorkeling equipment (masks and fins), life jacket, transport by boat, towel, food on board, water, snack, guide (certified by the Galapagos National Park) who speaks Spanish and English.

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This tour includes snorkeling in the bay (without landing on the island) and ends at Playa Escondida (Hidden Beach), a beautiful beach where you can observe small baby Galapagos sharks and also colonies of marine iguanas.

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We made two snorkel stops in Santa Fe, and one of them became one of our best memories of Galapagos: we swam with four very playful sea lions ! It’s amazing how they approach you to show you their best underwater tricks. They are totally harmless and very curious animals so if it happens to you do not panic and enjoy the moment!

Also, at the end of the snorkel, before getting on the boat, a huge bank of sardines appeared below us and it was quite a sight to see the sea lions among the bank of sardines, and even a booby going down from the sky, diving to get his food of the day! Really, these days around the enchanted islands seemed like we were in a National Geographic documentary.

As it is best to see it, in this video you will see our underwater “dance” with the sea lions and the bank of sardines.

Tour duration: from 7:00 to 16:00.

Price : from $ 124 / person.

Included : Snorkeling equipment (masks and fins), life jacket, transport by boat, towel, lunch, snack, water, guide (certified by the Galapagos National Park) who speaks Spanish and English.

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We were initially going to do this tour but couldn’t in the end, hope we can visit the islands again and go to Pinzon next time. On this tour there is a high probability of swimming with penguins ! Especially if you go in the cold water season. At the first stop, Bahía Pingüino , you can swim with the funny Galapagos penguins, with turtles and Galapagos sharks. Of course, here you can also swim with sea lions.

After that, the tour continues to “ La Roca” (The Rock), a 20-meter stone in the middle of the sea where you can see blue-footed boobies! It ends at a beach: either Playa La Fe or Playa Las Palmitas where you can relax and swim with sea turtles.

Tour duration: from 8:00 to 15:00.

Price : from $ 135 / person.

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This is a tour for someone who loves to walk through the wild nature of Galapagos. First, before reaching Seymour Norte, you will stop at a beach called Las Bachas to walk to a lagoon where, hopefully, you will see flamingos . Afterwards, you will snorkel on that same beach where you will swim with sea turtles. Depending on the boat, instead of the Bachas you may go snorkelling in the Mosquera islet, an equally amazing point for snorkeling.

When you get to Seymour , you will walk for 1h30 between frigatebirds (those birds with puffy red chests), blue-footed boobies and iguanas.

Like the Bartolomé Island tour, the Seymour Island tour is one of the most expensive tours. You will have to go first by land transport to the Itabaca channel and then enter the boat. In addition, it must be booked in advance since this tour usually runs out.

Tour duration: from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or from 07:50 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Price : from $ 220 / person (can be something more or something less, depending on the boat).

Included : Ground transportation (45 minutes to the Itabaca channel), snorkeling equipment (masks and fins), life jacket, transport by boat, towel, lunch, snack, water, guide (certified by the Galapagos National Park) who speaks Spanish and English.

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The ideal tour for people who is passionate about History since the main attractions of the island are historical. In the “ Asilo de la Paz ” you will see the pirates’ cave and a fresh water fountain. Both are located at the base of the hill 450 meters high in the agricultural area of ​​the island.

Here you will also learn about the first families that arrived and settled in Galapagos and the history of the “Baronesa”, a woman with two lovers who is said to have pretended to be the owner of Floreana.

Afterwards, you will walk for almost 1 km to “ La Loberia ” to see, as the name indicates, sea lions (lobos marinos) and also marine iguanas. The tour ends at Playa Negra where you can relax and practice snorkelling.

Price : from $ 160 / person.

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On this tour, after sailing for an hour you will walk in loop trail through inhospitable landscapes (no shadow, take lots of water with you) where you will meet swallow-tailed gulls, land iguanas, hybrid iguanas (if you are lucky) and, of course, some sea lion colonies.

Just as to get to Bartolomé Island and Seymour Island, to get to the Plazas Sur dock you must first go by ground transportation to the Itabaca channel and then enter the boat, making this tour one of the longest and more expensive.

Price : from $ 215 / person.

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Of the most exclusive Galapagos tours. Only two boats are authorized to go to Sombrero Chino island, so it is recommended to book this tour in advance, such as to go to Bartolomé and Seymour.

After 2 hours sailing, the first stop will make you believe that you are in the Caribbean, swimming between turquoise waters in a beach of fine white sand . Afterwards, you will walk towards the great volcanic cone that is located in the center of the island and that gives its name: they say that it looks like a Chinese hat. To rest from the walk, you will snorkel among tropical fish, marine iguanas feeding on coral, turtles and hopefully, even penguins on the “costa de James”

You will soon arrive at Sullivan Bay for another hike, a shorter one, above the Pahoe Hoe solidified lava among the beautiful cacti. More snorkeling around the bay to finish. Undoubtedly this is one of the tours we have written on our bucket list when we return to the paradise of the enchanted islands.

Depending on the day of departure (confirm in advance if you prefer this option), this tour is also combined with Bartolomé Island. First you visit Bartolomé Island and snorkel there and then continue to Sombrero Chino Island to hike.

To get to Sombrero Chino Island, as for Bartolomé Island (they are not very far from each other) you also have to go to the Itabaca channel to hop on the boat.

Price : from $ 265 / person.

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One of the cheapest tours in Santa Cruz is the one known as “ tour de la Bahía” ( the Bay tour). Pass through the so-called Lobería islet (it is named after the sea lion colony that lives out there) where you can snorkel. Then you will stop at Punta Estada , a gulf of turquoise waters where you will do one more snorkeling session and you will be able to spot some boobies and frigatebirds. They will also take you to the so-called “ shark channel ” where you can observe sharks and, from the viewpoint, contemplate the view of the highlands of Santa Cruz. After a 10 minute walk you will arrive to Los Perros beach where you will see a large colony of Galapagos marine iguanas. Finally, the tour will end in one of the most emblematic places of Santa Cruz that, as we mentioned before, you can also visit for free, Las Grietas .

Tour duration: from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. approx. or from 14:00 to 17:00 approx.

Price : from $ 45.

Included : Snorkeling equipment (masks and fins). This tour is sold by most agencies and operators on the main avenue, Avenida Charles Darwin in Puerto Ayora.

As on the island of San Cristóbal, to get to know the highlands of Santa Cruz, it is best to negotiate with a taxi that will take you to the authorized stops. The taxi ride will depart approximately for about $ 50 / total and you can negotiate with the taxi how long to be in each place. We did not get to go (because we went to the galapaguera of San Cristóbal and lava tunnels in Isabela and decided to prioritize other plans) but here is what we have researched about the places that you will visit in this tour:

– Los Gemelos : You will visit two impressive solidified lava formations, hollowed by the sinking of the earth. You will also see some endemic birds.

– Lava tunnels : You will be able to visit two tunnels formed by the solidified lava with a flashlight.

– Galapaguera El Chato : You will meet the biggest and oldest turtles in all the Galapagos. Here you will have to pay $ 5 to enter. In this Galapaguera, the turtles are free and their natural processes are not interfered with to avoid modifying their behavior as much as possible. What is controlled, as we explain in the Cerro Colorado Galapaguera , is the protection of the eggs against predators to ensure the continuity of the species.

Book this tour with Viator

If you want to save some time, you can also take advantage of your transfer from the airport to Puerto Ayora with a tour stopping at those places. Book it with Viator here

You can also visit the Lava tunnels and see the turtles with this bycicle tour you can book with Viator

As we mentioned before, taking into account that in Galapagos tap water is not drinkable and in supermarkets water bottles are expensive (approximately $ 2.50 for 2l), something we looked at is that the accommodation include free filtered water.  Also, in the case of Santa Cruz, we wanted to stay close to the  Puerto Ayora pier because of the tour boats, we didn’t know if we were going to do 2 or 3 tours (we finally did two: Bartolomé and Santa Fé). The prices seemed higher to us comparing to the peninsula (and even to San Cristóbal) but, we cannot forget, we are inside a protected natural park.

Apart from the free filtered water and good location (10-15 minutes walk from the pier), we wanted a fully equipped kitchen, hot water shower and quiet at night, perfect for resting after intense days in Galapagos. We ended up not using the kitchen that much, as in Santa Cruz there are many options to eat cheap food (but also to buy groceries to cook in the apartment if you prefer).

We stayed at Tintorera Guest House ($42 / night) and it met all requirements. It has suites and apartments with kitchen. If you stay longer you can try to negotiate the price in person. We eventually stayed in an apartment for the price of a double room with bathroom. It is about 15 minutes walking from downtown but includes shared bikes (not always available)

If you are looking for something fancier, the La Isla boutique hotel ($ 179) has it all: it is new, the views boast its comfort and it is right in the center of Puerto Ayora.

If you want something cooler but less expensive, don’t worry. Santa Cruz is the island with the biggest amount of options for accommodation so there is something for all budgets. See more accommodations in Santa Cruz here:

Find your perfect accommodation in Santa Cruz

Our favorite plan when we returned from the tours was to go to the municipal market , around 6pm, and buy a freshly made empanada (for $ 1) : they are delicious.

For dinner, the best option is to go to Charles Binford Street, known as Kiosko Street . From 6:30 p.m. they close the entire street to traffic, they fill it with the tables and chairs of the restaurants, with fresh fish and seafood (watch out for what you ask for because not everything is local). Lobster and prawn alternate (some months the gorverment allow fishermen to catch one of them, and the rest of months the other. Prawns for two with rice, fries and salad costed us $ 25, and a big beer $ 5.

If you miss something more touristy, Charles Darwin Street is your place. There we tried “ Darwin’s Wharf “ (a large sandwich to share and two ice teas for $ 16) and the “ Tropic Bird ” (lunch of the day $ 5, $ 3 if you ask for only main course and juice). You should also try the delicious craft beers on a place facing the sea on the same avenue, Santa Cruz Brewery ($ 5 for half a pint).

The Santa Cruz airport is not on the island of Santa Cruz but on a small island next to it, the island of Baltra. To get to Baltra airport from Puerto Ayora (or vice versa) it will take approximately 1h15 in three different transports:

• The first thing is to go from Puerto Ayora to Puerto de Santa Cruz. To get to the Puerto de Santa Cruz, the cheapest way is to go on the local bus ($ 5 / person) but before you will have to go to the bus terminal, walking or by taxi. We prefer to take a taxi directly to the Port of Santa Cruz: we have the contact of the shared taxi that we used that costed $ 8.75 / person: +593 98 807 0487 . This journey took approximately 40 minutes. Both the bus and the taxi will drop you off at the Itabaca channel.
• Once in the Itabaca channel, you will catch sea ​​taxi ($ 1 / person) to the Port of Baltra. It’s a big boat. The journey takes approximately 5 minutes, you just have to wait for the boat to fill up.
• Finally, on the other side of the canal you have to ride a bus that takes you to the airport for $ 5 / person. They themselves move the suitcases from the ship to the bus and it takes approximately 5 minutes to reach the airport.

In total the journey with the 3 transports was 1h15m and 8.75 + 1 + 5 = $ 14.65 / person.

If you land at the Baltra airport and want to go to Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz) you will have to do the same route with the 3 transports but in reverse. It is easier to share a taxi with other people since you will go all together on the bus, although if you want you can contact the number that we shared ( +593 98 807 0487 ) to have it already waiting.

You can transform this jorney in a tour and stop by some places in the route. Book it with Viator here

Here you have the Google Maps map with all the places to visit in Santa Cruz included in the guide, so you can take it with you on your smartphone:

If you are curious, you can see a briefing of what we did in Santa Cruz, entering here in our Instagram Stories.

Things to do in Isabela

The largest island in Galapagos (but one of the least populated and the least touristy of the 3 main ones) beacame our favorite island and was the island that we liked the most to explore on our own. Isabela welcomed us with penguins in the water in the middle of the port and a lot of sea lions, just when arrived in the boat from Santa Cruz. We crossed paths with more animals than humans, we pedaled among giant tortoises and we walked barefoot through sandy streets until we spotted flamingos. We have only seen one paved street on the entire island, the main street, since the others are made of dirt or sand. The days in Isabela were, therefore, days of living barefoot, of buying empanadas, chifles and a couple of beers and saying goodbye to the sun every day, on the beach next to our temporary home.

Things to do in Isabela on your own (free or very cheap plans)

Idyllic beach. In our opinion, it is the best beach of Galapagos you can reach on your own, without a tour . This beach offered us races in the sand with marine iguanas and tropical birds, swimming in crystal clear water and incredible sunsets. We had the ritual of buying some chifles (fried banana chips) or empanadas from Don Pipo, a couple of beers and enjoying the sunset on the beach.

Another free plan to do in Isabela is to walk with your snorkel gear to Concha de Perla (less than 10 minutes from downtown), a lagoon next to the pier where there is a lot of biodiversity ! Here you can see, apart from a beautiful coral bottom, different tropical fish, turtles, marine iguanas, and even some penguins! .

It is an ideal place for snorkeling because it has no waves or currents, it is sheltered, and the water is completely crystal clear.

Of course, iguanas and sea lions usually rest in the wooden passageway to get there … If there is an animal rush hour, wait a little and they will surely let you pass. The Concha Perla lagoon closes at 6pm.

If you do not have snorkeling equipment, you can rent it in Puerto Villamil (ask in dive shops to compare prices, although it usually costs $ 5 for the whole day)

This lagoon is an oasis of peace within the oasis of peace that is Isabela . To get there you must follow the path after the Iguana Crossing hotel, and when you see many iguanas roasting in the sun and a lagoon of reddish waters, you have arrived. Upon entering you will be able to appreciate the silence interrupted only by the wings of a flamingo or by the endemic birds that you can see around there. As an image is worth a thousand words, here we show you what you can see in this lagoon.

By the way, did you know that flamingos are born white but acquire their pink color due to the food they eat? If you see an adult flamingo white or very light pink, it is probably undernourished.

If you follow the wooden passageway of the lagoon you will reach the Galapagos Tortoise Conservation Center , although we did not go because we arrived at sunset and it had already closed (closes at 5pm). In any case, as we researched, it seems that the same thing happens as in the Charles Darwin Research Station in Santa Cruz: the turtles there are in captivity, which collides with sustainable and responsible tourism in Galapagos, respectful with people and animals. If you want to see turtles in the wild, we recommend that you do it on the way to the Wall of Tears, in the next section

The ideal way to do the route from Puerto Villamil to the Wall of Tears is renting a bike, although you can also do it on foot. You can rent the bike at Galapagos Bike & Surf ($ 4 / hour) or per day ($ 20 / day), which is where we rented it.

The tour begins at the end of Isabela beach and continues until you reach the Wall of Tears. It is 5km one way and 5km back that seem like more because of the burning sun. The entrance to the wall closes at 5:00 pm, so there is no way to go avoiding the sun. There are several detours during the path, so the time it takes will depend on how many stops you do and how long you spend on each one. There are the stops me made:

– Playa del Amor (Love beach): the name is because iguanas nest here. We liked it so much that we stayed a good time there, resting and enjoying the water.

– Estero Tunnel : a jungle mangrove tunnel (there are up to 4 types of mangrove) where the waves of the sea arrive

– La playita : where there is also a huge community of iguanas

– The path of the turtles : We passed by some turtles walking or with the bike

– Cerro Orchilla viewpoint : it is totally worth climbing the steps to enjoy the views of the island, they are impressive. From this viewpoint you can see Puerto Villamil, and, in the background, Isla Tortuga.

Finally we arrived to the end of the tour, the so-called “ Wall of Tears “. We intuited by his name that it would be something sad but it was not until we arrived that we understood what it was about. In this place, between 1946 and 1959, the Penal Colony of Isabela (a prison) functioned since at that time the island was a destination of exile to punish dissidents, political prisoners and criminals.

This wall of volcanic stones is the only evidence that remains, remembering the hard past of the island and the center that ended with the lives of many prisoners. The purpose of this construction is to keep the memory alive of the suffering and of those who died here due to forced labor and abuse of power. This was the only sad place we encountered in our 2 weeks in Galapagos.

Where the island vibe can be felt since it is where people gather at night. There are several restaurants, shops, and kiosks where you can buy an ice cream, beer, or empanada and enjoy it with the locals.

Best day tours from Isabela

Did you know that Isabela has 6 volcanoes of which 5 are active? It was precisely one of the active volcanoes of Isabela, the Sierra Negra (which we visited the next day) that created, with the help of the sea, the incredible scenery you visit on the most-selling tour of Isabela: the Cabo Rosa lava tunnels.

Book the Cabo Rosa Tunnels Tour with Chokotrip Book the Cabo Rosa Tunnels Tour with Viator

Apparently, when volcano lava flows, upon contact with air, it solidifies outside while the lava continues to flow within them, creating tunnels . Over time, the roofs of those tunnels collapsed, creating these incredible formations where you can get lost in and out of the water.

The Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, pelicans on the surface and turtles, red sharks, rays, penguins, tropical fish and seahorses in the water live here. By the way, we saw all these species but the biggest achievement was that here we saw our first seahorse! We have never seen any and, as a curiosity, if you look at Isabela Island on the map, it seems to have the silhouette of one.

To finish with more surprises, a lot of golden manta rays appeared on the return trip. Incredible!

Here is a video-summary of the tour-star of Isabela, where at the end the golden manta rays are seen closer, under the sea:

Tour duration: from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. or from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Price : from $ 125 / person.

Includes : Snorkeling equipment (masks and fins), life jacket, water transport, towel, water, boxlunch, Galapagos National Park certified guide who speaks Spanish and English.

The most impressive thing about this tour is the panoramic view of the crater of the active volcano and the landscapes you go through as you enter the volcano inside the crater, which seems from another planet .

Book the Sierra Negra Volcano tour with Chokotrip Book the Sierra Negra Volcano tour with Viator

Here we think about the volatility of life. Millions of years ago this land we walked on was the sea and the animals we knew were different. Millions of years from now this land will be greener, more fertile and life (probably different) will abound on it. If we let it.

The level of difficulty, of this walk is medium. There are not a lot of up and downs but the terrain is slippery and unstable in one section and the pace is high, you don’t stop much . The walk per ser is 16 km (8km one way and 8km back) that lasts approximately 5 hours. Very important, do not forget to wear adequate closed shoes (sports or trekking shoes) and take lots of water with you (2 liters / person minimum).

As a curiosity, this volcano erupts every 15 years (on average) and had its last eruption in June 2018 . The eruptions of younger volcanoes, like this one, are milder and usually they are not a danger to the local population, such as a volcano on the continent like Cotopaxi, which usually have stronger eruptions. In fact, the eruption of 2018 was an unforeseen “extra” in the cruises that passed through here since nature allowed them to safely enjoy the view of the orange lava in the night.

Tour duration: from 7:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. or from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Price : from $ 45 / person.

Included : Water transport, lunchbox and a guide (certified by the Galapagos National Park) who speaks Spanish and English.

Another plan to do in Isabela is to go to the Tintoreras islet, which you can do by boat or by kayak. The tour departs from the beach next to the port towards the islet. We decided to go with the kayak option and think it’s the best option. Why? Keep reading.

When we got to the kayak that we had been assigned on the beach, we had a passenger who wanted to come with us. Although he finally let us use the kayak and decided to go for a swim

Book the Kayaking Tintoreras Tour wih Chokotrip , or the normal tour here Bookt the Kayaking Tintoreras Tour with Viator

Beyond snorkeling (where we saw 4 turtles, some “tintorera sharks” and a marine iguana eating a piece of coral ) the best thing happened in the end. It was starting to get dark and suddenly we saw our kayak surrounded by pelicans and penguins among that orange color of the sunset, it was an unforgettable moment!

Tour duration: 2.5 hours.

Included : Kayak, vest, snorkeling equipment (masks and fins), certified guide. This tour is sold in most agencies and operators of Puerto Villamil.

They also told us about a tour from Isabela to an island nearby (you can see it clearly from the Cerro Orchilla viewpoint) called Isla Tortuga. They said there it’s great for snorkeling and seeing hammerhead sharks!

Unfortunately, it seems to be a tour that not a lot of people want to do, so it is not easy to find agencies that sell it, unless a large enough group of people is formed (or the few people who want to go pay for the total of the boat ).

Check with Chokotrip the availability of the Isla Tortuga Tour here

Once again we stayed in an accommodation in Isabela where it was possible to refill our water bottles for free with filtered water.

We stayed in a double room with a private bathroom in a family hostel: Hostal Villamil ($ 48 / night). In Isabela everything is really close, the center of the island is very small, so the important thing is to stay on a quiet street where there is no noise at night and that was our case. The couple from Galapagos who run the hostel are charming and will help you with everything you need. The bed was comfortable and the how water worked perfectly. It did not include breakfast nor had a kitchen.

Another option at a similar price ($ 55 / night) is Hospedaje Mother Fanny , right in the center and very close to the beach.

There was a place that made us think “someday we’ll stay here” when we passed beside it. It’s called Isamar Hotel (from 146$/night) and it’s on the beachfront, in front of the beautiful Isabela beach. You can enjoy the sunset from your balcony. Other options to crave for, especially if you bring the family, are these two options with several rooms: Mi Playa Beachfront Isabela (from 204$/night up to 5 people) and Sandy Feet House (from 345$ up to 6 people).

More options where to stay in Isabela here:

Find your perfect accommodation for Isabela here

Before sunset, “ Empanadas Don Pipo ” is a mandatory stop: freshly made empanadas (from 3pm to 7pm), for $ 1. We normally bought the beers in a store or mini-market for $ 2. Having a beer with a view of the sea in a bar, is prohibitive: the same beer costs $ 7.

For breakfast we went to a bakery ( see map ) and bought delicious banana bread and cheese bread, all for $ 0.50 / $ 1. They don’t have coffee. Next to this bakery there was a local kiosk with “almuerzo del día” for $ 4.

Another option for breakfast is the Sun & Coffee: here they did have continental breakfast with coffee and toast. Of course, it’s more focused on tourists and also more expensive: full breakfasts start at $ 7.

In the main square of Puerto Villamil, where people gather in the evening, there are restaurants with a night menu for $ 8 full or $ 6 just a main course, juice and dessert.

Isabela is the only island of the three main ones that does not have an airport with flights to/from Quito or Guayaquil, so the only way to get there is by “fiber” (boat) from Santa Cruz (or by plane from Santa Cruz or San Cristobal). The journey takes around 2h and when you get to Puerto Villamil, it takes 5 minutes walk on the only paved road to the to the center of the town.

When you arrive to Isabela, you will have to pay a $10 tourist tax.

Here we leave you a Google Maps map with all the places we recommend visiting Isabela in this guide, so you can take it with you on your smartphone:

If you want to see the compilation of the stories we shared on our instagram account, from our visit to Isabela Island, enter here .

Where to dive in Galapagos?

The Galapagos Islands are a true underwater paradise and that is why it is considered one of the best diving places in the World . The convergence of various marine currents (such as the cold Humboldt and Cromwell currents and the warm Panama current) loaded with nutrients, attract a lot of marine life and make each dive is a real show.

As with the tours, there are many places to dive in Galapagos and some are among the best in the world. It is very important to note:

• Choose the season : between January and May better visibility and higher water temperature (between 22º-27º) and between July and December less visibility and a cooler water temperature (between 18º-22º) but greater contribution of plankton and nutrients and greater amount of pelagic life (greater chance of seeing whale sharks on the distant islands of Wolf and Darwin).
• Choose a dive site according to your diving capabilities : some of the sites are suitable only for divers with advanced experience or a minimum of 25 dives. Confirm before booking
• Choose a reliable dive center . The guide must be accredited by the Galapagos National Park and have an international divemaster license. The boat must have trained staff. The equipment must be in perfect condition. Don’t forget that together with your dive buddy , the team is your best friend there under the sea, so you have to check that everything is perfect. Regulators must be clean and 100% working; wetsuits must not have too many holes… (you will try them on the center the day before the dive); vests must close tightly; bottles will need to be up-to-date: check the date of the last review.)
• Be clear how much budget you want to spend diving. If diving is already expensive in general, in Galapagos it’s even more … Of course, remember that you will be diving in a very special natural park.

On the other hand, depending on the flexibility you want on your Galapagos days (with more or less diving), you can choose:

• Daily diving tour, as Inês has done. Taking into account that we wanted to enjoy the Galapagos Islands with their endemic species without a cruise and do tours that were not only diving (Chris does not dive), Inês chose the dives she wanted to do, the center where they did them and those days she went to dive on a daily diving tour (incluing food, snack, towel and water). Price : starting at $ 150 for a double dive, depending on the dive site and the season (in high season it can cost much more).
• Dive package with accommodation . A package that includes an average of 2 dives per day and comfortable accommodation on the islands. Price : starting at $ 1000 (5 days 4 nights) with accommodation.
• Navigable Diving Tour , also known as liveaboard . A diving cruise with an average of 4 daily dives. In addition, you will do dives in places where you can only reach with a liveaboard . Price : between 600 to 700 $ / day. These tours normally last 7/8 days, so do your math …
• Mix : A few days on a liveaboard and other days on your own on the islands. This would be the option that would make Inês very happy but it takes many days and, above all, a lot of budget. Taking into account that there are dive sites that you can only visit on a liveaboard , what’s better than doing a little of both? There is also another possible mix that would be to do some daily diving tours inside an expedition cruise.

As mentioned, there are many places where it is possible to dive in the Galapagos, so here we include only the most outstanding ones:

Gordon Rocks (from Santa Cruz)

One of those that is always on the lists of the best places to dive is the famous “ Gordon Rocks “, in Santa Cruz, colloquially known as the “washing machine” for the amount of marine life that swirls around the pinnacles of this old volcano crater . Hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, eagle rays, manta rays or turtles are just some of the species that abound here and that Inês has seen. Of course, this “washing machine” has strong currents so Gordon Rocks is not suitable for beginners. Recommended for advanced divers with a minimum of 25 dives.

Inês took a daily diving tour at the Scuba Iguana center and he really liked it.

Leon Dormido – Kicker Rock (from San Cristóbal)

Another famous Galapagos diving spot where you can dive without much experience is the León Dormido (Kicker Rock) , in San Cristóbal. Between the two rocks, approximately 148 m high, an exceptional channel is formed to observe sharks (Galapagos and hammerheads), sea turtles, eagle rays and looots of tropical fish. Inês dived with Planet Ocean which she really liked, and heard good things also about Blue Evolution .

Mosquera (from Santa Cruz)

Incredible coral colors, many sea lions, turtles, whitetip sharks and, hopefully, even tiger sharks can be seen around here. It is usually done combined with Gordon Rocks: Inês did it like this with Scuba Iguana .

Darwin and Wolf (only in a liveaboard diving tour)

These two islets are two dive sites that always appear in the best diving sites in the world lists. They are located 40 km northwest of the main islands and are only accessible on a multi-day liveaboard of more than $ 4,000. Of course, they say you will see more hammerhead sharks than in your entire life and, with luck, even whale sharks and killer whales!

Other notable places are Cousins ​​Rock and Cape Marshall (also only accessible on liveaboard ) or North Seymour (with options for all types of divers, including beginners).

This, as always, is subjective and will depend on your preferences. In case it helps you, the most popular tours on each island are the following:

• From San Cristóbal : León Dormido (can be done within the 360 tour )
• From Santa Cruz : Bartolomé Island , Santa Fé , Pinzón Island
• From Isabela : Cabo Rosa Tunnels , Sierra Negra Volcano

Galapagos travel itineraries

As Galapagos are such amazing islands and with so many things to see , it is impossible to cover everything on just one visit to the Park , so we leave some suggestions, recommendations and itinerary examples depending on the amount of days you are visiting and your budget.

How to organize your Galapagos travel itinerary

Here are some tips to put together your itinerary:

• As you can see, the options are endless with lots of places to visit: choose the places that you are interested in the most and plan well to try to minimize moving from one island to another .
• Choose the places you are most interested in knowing and check if the dates you are going to travel are a good time for each of the destinations. Please note that some tours cannot be done every day of the week.
• Check if there is any special holiday in the places you are going to visit on the dates you are going to travel, as this may affect schedules, transport, prices, number of people, etc.
• Book the accommodations, trips and tours that you already have clear in advance, especially if you are going to visit tourist places in high season.
• Take a good look at the travel possibilities to make a realistic itinerary . If possible, leave room so that if a trip fails you do not spoil the entire itinerary (also to relax and enjoy the islands “doing nothing” as well).

After spending a good time organizing our 2 week trip, flooding Christian from Chokotrip with doubts who had infinite patience and gave us many useful information, we believe that the easiest way to organize the days and tours / activities in Galapagos is the next:

1. Create a list of the plans that you want to do in each island you are going to visit and classify them as “half day” or “full day”. Here you have all the plans included in this guide, classified:

• Highlands taxi tour
• Lobería Beach
• Malecon and Playa Oro
• Mann Beach, Cerro Tijeretas and Punta Carola
• León Dormido (Kicker Rock) Tour
• Isla Lobos Tour
• Española Island Tour

• Tortuga Bay + Nymphs Lagoon
• Malecon, Darwin Research Station and La Ratonera Beach
• North Seymour Tour
• Bay Tour (Lobería Islet and Playa de los Perros)

• Main square and beach of Puerto Villamil
• Snorkel in Concha Perla and port beach
• Bike tour to the Wall of Tears and flamingo lagoons
• Cabo Rosa tunnels tour

2. Create an excel or a table with the days you have for Galapagos , taking into account that the arrival and departure days are probably only half days (between trips, check-in, etc.)

3. Fill each day with a full day plan or one/two half day plans

4. Check if the tours are available for your dates (you can talk with Christian from Chokotrip who will help you)

5. If you are going to visit several islands, you must also take into account the transportation between islands (probably the day you move from one island to another you can only include a half-day plan)

Remember that it is indicative! Some half-day plans take less time, and you may be able to combine more plans in the same day, but it is also important not to adjust the plans too much so you don’t run around, enjoy the islands more, leave some time to go shopping or take a beer, relax, and if something goes wrong you have room for adapting.

If you have less than 5 days to discover the enchanted islands, we recommend that you focus on one island to make the most of the days and avoid moving between islands:

• Day 1: Arrival by plane and half day plan (ex: Malecon and Playa Oro)
• Day 2: Tour to León Dormido in the morning, Lobería Beach in the afternoon
• Day 3: Highland tour in the morning, Isla Lobos tour in the afternoon
• Day 4: Mann Beach, Snorkel at Cerro Tijeretas and Punta Carola and return by plane
• Day 1: Arrival by plane and half day plan (ex: Malecon, Darwin Research Station and La Ratonera Beach)
• Day 2: Tour to Santa Fé
• Day 3: Tour to Bartolomé
• Day 4: Las Grietas in the morning, tour to the highlands in the afternoon
• Day 5: Tortuga Bay + nymphs lagoon and return by plane

If you have one week to visit the enchanted islands, we recommend that you choose one or two islands maximum and focus your tours on those, avoiding jumping from island to island:

Some examples of itineraries you can do in a week in Galapagos :

• Day 1: Arrival by plane to Santa Cruz and half-day plan (ex: Malecon, Darwin Research Station and La Ratonera Beach)
• Day 4: boat to Isabela in the morning, tour to cabo rosa tunnels in the afternoon
• Day 5: Tour to Sierra Negra volcano in the morning, Tintoreras in the afternoon
• Day 6: Boat to Santa Cruz, Las Grietas upon arrival and tour to the highlands in the afternoon
• Day 7: Tortuga Bay + nymphs lagoon and return by plane
• Day 1: Arrival by plane to Santa Cruz and half day plan (ex: Tortuga Bay and nymph lagoon)
• Day 4: boat to San Cristóbal in the morning and half day plan (ex: Malecon and Playa Oro)
• Day 5: Tour to León Dormido in the morning, Lobería Beach in the afternoon
• Day 6: Highland tour in the morning, Isla Lobos tour in the afternoon
• Day 7: Mann Beach, Snorkel at Cerro Tijeretas and Punta Carola and return by plane

With two weeks you will have time to visit more places and you can do like us, staying in the 3 main islands. You can join several of the options from the previous points to create a 2-week itinerary. This is the itinerary that we did:

Galapagos 2-week itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival by plane to San Cristóbal, check-in and visit to the Malecon and Playa Oro
• Day 2: Tour to the highlands by taxi in the morning, Playa Lobería in the afternoon
• Day 3: Tour to León Dormido and Cerro Brujo
• Day 4: Boat to Santa Cruz in the morning, relax in the afternoon
• Day 5: Tour to Bartolomé Island
• Day 6: Visit to Tortuga Bay and nymphs lagoon
• Day 7: Tour to Santa Fe
• Day 8: Boat to Isabela in the morning, kayak to Tintoreras in the afternoon
• Day 9: Tour to Cabo Rosa tunnels
• Day 10: Biking to Muro de Las Lágrimas with several stops and flamingo lagoon
• Day 11: Tour to Sierra Negra Volcano
• Day 12: Boat to Santa Cruz
• Day 13: Visit to Las Grietas
• Day 14: Diving at Gordon Rocks and Darwin Research Station
• Day 15: Flight back to Guayaquil

These itineraries are just examples, it all depends on your preferences and interests and the money you can spend (with a low budget at the end you will do fewer tours and get to know the islands more on your own).

The incredible beach of Puerto Villamil, Isabela

Transportation: how to move around Galapagos

How to move between islands.

The best way to move between islands is by boat. Speedboats, ” fibers ” as they are called there, cost $ 30 each way (negotiating and/or buying several trips can get the price down to $ 25) and it takes about 2h30 each way (depending on the sea). You can also book them with Chokotrip

There is not much frequency but the times are fixed and, almost always, punctual (at least in our experience). These are the schedules

Tip: take a Dramamine before boarding to prevent seasickness because the boats go very fast and usually do quite a few “jumps”, depending on how the sea is.

You have to be in the pier 30 minutes before the ship’s departure time , as they need to inspect your suitcase/backpack. When you arrive, you will see that there are many people waiting: several boat companies operate in the same route and schedule and you will have to find yours (in some cases you will have to give your name and they will give you a badge to indicate which boat you are going to).

In our opinion, it is better to go as far back as possible on the boat, which is where you will get less dizzy

There is also the option of moving by plane besides being more expensive (about $ 175 each way, although it varies depending on the season), we read that if they do not sell enough seats, the flights do not depart, so we believe that the boat option is the best one. The companies that operate the flights are Emetebe and Fly Galápagos .

The advantage of the flights is that they last 30 minutes and you can go from San Cristóbal directly to Isabela (which you cannot do by boat, you have to stop at Santa Cruz).

Within the islands, it is best to walk , rent a bicycle (check rental prices on the island you are in) or taxi (for short distances, in San Cristóbal it costs $ 2 each way, in Santa Cruz $ 1.5 each way).

Tours include all transportation, so when you do a tour they will probably pick you up at your accommodation or at a previously defined point.

The official currency of Ecuador (including the Galapagos Islands) is the USD. When we went, the exchange was approximately € 1 = $ 1.10. You can check the current exchange rate EUR <-> USD here

How to withdraw/exchange money in Galapagos, and how much money to take to Galapagos

It is important to note that neither ATMs nor paying with debit/credit card are that common in the enchanted islands. In Galapagos almost no one accepts a card as a payment method (and if they do they charge huge fees, from 10 to 20%), almost all payments will have to be made in cash and there are only ATMs in San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz. In Isabela there is no ATM. Yes, get ready to go with lots of cash (fortunately the islands are really safe)

We recommend, therefore, that you organize your trip with some time and calculate how much money you are going to need (between tours, transfers, meals, accommodation, etc.). You can see how to calculate your budget here . We also recommend that you book as many tours as you can online, to be able to pay online and avoid carrying that much cash.

We normally never carry a lot of cash or exchange money unless there is no other alternative. What we do is withdraw money from ATMs with our debit/credit cards, and we always carry some “emergency” euros/dollars with us just in case.

In Isabela, there are no ATMs

Cards that do not charge fees in Ecuador

We use the following cards to be able to withdraw money abroad without paying fees . With these, you can withdraw dollars in Ecuador, before flying to the Galapagos, without paying fees (or paying low fees):

• Revolut : it allows you to withdraw 200€/month without fees ( get a free Revolut card with this link )
• N26 : the premium version of this card allows you to withdraw money in foreign currency with no fees.

With these 2 cards, we manage to avoid paying fees while traveling.

Whenever you can, pay by card since the limits of the previous ones for card payments are higher . When you are in Ecuador, before flying to the Galapagos, try to pay everything by card so as not to consume the ATM withdrawal limit without fees

Banks / ATMs that do not charge fees in Ecuador

Although your card may not charge you a fee for withdrawing money from foreign ATMs, the ATM itself may have a fee for its use, which is normally quite high, and independent of the card you use.

In Ecuador, after much trial and error, we found that most ATMs charge a fee on each withdrawal, so the following information will be very useful and will help you save a few $.

The ATMs that we always used during our 2 months in Ecuador and that never charged us a fee for their use are:

• Banco Pichincha
• Banco Internacional Ecuador
• Banco General Rumiñahui

We almost always used Banco Pichincha , which is everywhere in Ecuador. Both in Quito and Guayaquil you will find Banco Pichincha ATMs without problems, where you can withdraw the cash you need (it is likely that you will have to make several withdrawals since these have a maximum amount)

In Galapagos there are hardly any ATMs (you will only find them in Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal, and there are no guarantees that they will work). We finally had to withdraw some extra cash in Santa Cruz (there is a Pichincha ATM) and it worked perfectly.

In addition to the above, whenever you withdraw money and/or pay by card, you have to make sure that the transaction is made in local currency (that is, in USD). If you let the cashier or the POS make the transaction in another currency, they will apply their own exchange rate that in general will be bad and you will end up paying extra money.

We are not going to lie to you: whatever you do, traveling to the Galapagos is expensive , much more than traveling to the rest of Ecuador and Latin America.

Estimated budget for 1 week (per person) traveling on your own (without a cruise nor an organized trip) :

• Flight from Quito or Guayaquil to Galapagos (round trip): $ 300
• Park admission and taxes (for non-nationals * ): $ 120
• Accommodation: $ 20 / night: $ 140
• Meals: $ 20 / day: $ 140
• Tours: 3-4 tours: $ 400-500
• Transportation: $ 60 (each boat trip between islands is approximately $ 30)
• Total: about $ 1,100-1200 / person

It would be necessary to add the flight to Quito or Guayaquil from where you live: if you go from Spain, taking into account that flight and a couple of days that you will spend in Quito or Guayaquil it would go up to $ 2,000 / person

Yes, we know, it is a lot of money for 1 week. But it is the price to pay for stepping on this biodiverse paradise where it’s mandatory to protect animals and they are not afraid of you because they have always been there, protected at home.

Based on those prices you can get an idea of ​​what you can do depending on your preferences/needs and the number of days you go.

Of course, you can visit for a few days, do fewer tours, save more on food, etc., to lower the total cost.

We leave you some reference prices to help you estimate your budget :

• Accommodation: a minimum of $ 15 / night per person
• Local food (“almuerzo del día”): $ 4 per person
• Local dinner: $ 8 per person
• Tourist restaurant: from $ 15 / person
• Empanadas: 1 $ each
• Ice cream: from $ 2
• Beer in store: $ 2
• Beer in bar: from $ 4
• Non-alcoholic drink in bar: from $ 2
• Snorkeling rental: $ 5 per day
• Bike rental: $ 4 / h or $ 20 / day
• Taxi ride for short distances: 2 $ one way
• Half day boat tour: $ 120
• Full day boat tour: $ 240
• Half day land tour: $ 50

On the other hand, as we told you before you can choose to travel to the Galapagos Islands on a cruise .

In this case, the estimated budget for 1 week (per person) traveling by cruise ship :

• Flight from Quito or Guayaquil to Galapagos (i / v): $ 300
• Galapagos 8-day cruise: $ 3000
• Accommodation: included
• Meals: included
• Tours: included
• Displacements: included
• Total: $ 3500 / person

* Of these $ 120, $ 20 is from the transit control card (same for everybody) but the $ 100 park fee will only be paid by foreigners. Instead of $ 100, the national citizens of Ecuador must pay $ 6 and the citizens of the Andean Community and Mercosur must pay $ 50.

** There are shorter and cheaper cruises, for example from $ 1,300 / person for 5 days. You can book your 4-8 day cruise here or a cheaper last-minute cruise here .

This is very important! It’s not a coincidence that the non-human inhabitants of these enchanted islands have come to this day without fear of human beings: years of isolation and current tourism with protection and sustainability policies. So the most important thing , when you visit, is that you respect their protection policies:

• Do not get closer than 2 meters from the animals. These 2 meters of mandatory wildlife distance include cameras
• Do not touch, do not feed , do not interfere in the natural processes of animals to avoid affecting their behavior as much as possible. For example, did you know that if you touch a baby sea lion, it will get “contaminated” with your scent and this can lead to its mother rejecting it later?
• Do not remove elements from the ecosystem
• No smoking, no bonfires
• Walk inside the trails
• Do not use flash in photos: professional recordings and drones need authorization
• Camping only in designated sites , with prior authorization
• Use authorized tourist services. Use only authorized fishing boats
• Do not introduce external elements to the Galapagos ecosystem
• Do not use motorized aquatic vehicles , submarines or air tourism.
• Participate only on authorized tours (you can not explore the islands without trained and authorized guides) and respect the recommendations of the guides in each site
• Do not write words or sentences in the natural environment
• Leave the trash in its place. Never leave garbage in the natural environment.

And we add these recommendations as a reminder:

• Don’t play loud music
• Do not waste water. In the Galapagos, water scarcity is a serious problem.
• Use reef friendly sun protection ; that is, one that does not contain coral-damaging chemicals, without oxybenzone , and that has not been tested on animals . For example, this one or on this one .
• If you need to use a straw (really think if you need to), travel with your aluminum straw, and ask the waiter not to put a plastic one on your drink
• In short, respect the habitat and its inhabitants.

The impact that tourism causes in Galapagos is real and it is clear that the best for these islands is that no one visit them. If the luxury of stepping on them in a controlled way is allowed, the least we can do is minimize our impact , respecting the rules and interfering as little as possible. It is about observing, enjoying and never forget that we are forced guests on their home.

On the other hand, for your own safety are some things to keep in mind:

• The “manzanillo” tree (so named because its fruit resembles a small apple – manzana -) that giant tortoises feed on can be deadly to humans. That is why it is known as the “tree of death”: not only does the fruit harm us by ingesting it, but also its leaves can cause wounds with minimal contact or even the smoke generated by its combustion.

• Animals are in complete freedom and their behavior is unpredictable : do not disturb them and they will not disturb you.
• If you don’t have it, get the yellow fever vaccine . It is NOT mandatory (unless you come from Brazil, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda) but it is recommended, and for your own safety you should have it.
• Always travel with travel insurance : medical expenses, thefts, or problems with your plane on a trip can cost lots of money, so ideally you should hire travel insurance. We always use IATI and we recommend it (on this 7-month trip to Latin America we bought the IATI Estrella Premium). Hiring your insurance using this link gets you a 5% discount

If, like us, you are traveling from Spain / Portugal: yes, you need a plug adapter .

In Galapagos (and in Ecuador) power plugs and sockets are either type A (two parallel flat pins) or B (like A but with a third round plug)

We have been traveling for several years with this universal plug adapter that you can buy on Amazon for about $ 14 and that works like a charm:

We recommend this one for one main reason: it “clings” well to all the plugs we’ve tested it on. You will see out there many other adapters (universal or not) cheaper (or not if you buy them at the airport), but then in some wall sockets they fall because of their weight, and it is impossible to use them.

As the accommodations do not always have many plugs, we also travel with (and always recommend) these two extra accessories:

• A strip of 3 plugs , a basic one. With this, you just need one plug to charge all your devices.
• A USB charger with 6 outputs : With this, you can charge 6 USB devices with a single plug. It also has 2 fast charging ports for your smartphones.

In order to have cheap internet on your phone during your trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, we suggest you buy a local SIM card. With it, in addition to having internet on your smartphone, you can share the internet connection with your laptop or other devices, and you can call hotels or tour companies if necessary at a very low price.

The provider with the best coverage throughout the country (and therefore the one that interests you the most if you are going to visit different places in Galapagos and Ecuador in general) is Claro , and all providers have similar prices (for internet, 2GB = approximately $ 10). Claro is the only one that works (sometimes) in Galapagos.

An easier way, if your smartphone is compatible, is to buy an eSIM. That way, you will have internet on your smartphone as soon as you land in Ecuador. You can get an Ecuador eSIM at Holafly , and enjoy up to a 5% discount using the coupon “RANDOMTRIP”

Unfortunately, the internet connections in Ecuador are something that doesn’t work very well: the internet is priced quite high for low and unstable connection quality. We noticed it in major cities like Quito and Guayaquil, imagine what it is like in Galapagos. Although it works (in Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal there is 4G coverage with Claro), the connection is unstable and sometimes slow. Claro is the only operator that works decently in Galapagos: the rest either have no coverage or work worse.

The international Ecuador prefix is ​​+593.

Here is a list of essentials that you can not forget to take on your trip to Galapagos:

• Passport, valid for at least 6 months before your arrival in Ecuador
• Money, cash (do not forget the $ 120 cash you’ll need before entering the park)
• Camera to record some bits of everything you will experience. We travel with a Sony A5100 and a GoPro for underwater footage
• Sun Protection reef friendly (one that does not contain chemicals that harm the corals, without oxybenzone, and that has not been tested on animals, like this or this )
• Mosquito repellent , like this one .
• A cap or a hat, remember that the sun in Galapagos hits very hard
• Sports sandals / sports shoes: although it is hot, you won’t be able to walk on the volcanic terrain that you will find in Galapagos just with some flip flops
• A reusable bottle of water like any of these to always carry water with you since you will be on isolated beaches many times and in most places there is no where to buy. Many of the accommodations will include water to refill the bottle for free. In addition, you will avoid single-use plastic.
• First-aid kit : in ours there is no lack of anti-dizziness drugs (such as Dramamine for dizziness in boats), antibiotics, antidiarrheals (and some probiotics to recover more quickly), antihistamines, analgesics and antipyretics.
• Snorkelling gear if you want to bring your own (you can also rent it in the islands). Here’s a kit for less than $ 20
• Swimsuit and light and breathable clothing (some long pants to avoid mosquito bites). We also always wear a long-sleeved lycra top with UV protection that we use to protect ourselves from cold water and the sun when snorkeling, like these ones .
• Dry bag , to keep your electronic devices safe during tours. This for example costs $ 12
• Microfiber travel towel , which occupies little space and that you will use for the beach (in the tours they usually include good towels). If you do not have you can buy them on Amazon
• Power bank : with so much pictures and videos you will use a lot of battery, so it always comes handy to carry a good power bank. We travel with these 2 ( Xiaomi and Anker ), which allow us to charge both smartphones, the camera and the GoPro.

For us the answer is crystal clear. Galapagos is an expensive destination and it is a privilege to be able to step on it . That said, it is a destination that will not leave anyone indifferent and will probably be placed in the top of the list for anyone who loves animals . Now, if you do not have an special interest in observing animals in the wild, you may be disappointed, especially for what you are paying. Don’t get us wrong. We have seen landscapes as beautiful as the island of Bartolomé in Indonesia for a quarter of the price, we have seen beaches as beautiful in other parts of the world like in the Philippines or Caribbean islands and we have lived the island life in a more relaxed way for five times less money in the more than 200 islands that we have visited in our life.

For us, the Galapagos Islands became one of the most incredible places we have visited because you are on that paradisiacal beach (yes, like that postcard one, like the ones in the Caribbean or in the Philippines) but with hardly any people and full of sea lions in the water showing you their best tricks or on the sand resting in the sun, next to your towel. A frigatebird flying, a blue-footed booby placidly watching everything from a rock on the shore and a giant turtle with whom you met that afternoon whose shell was bigger than the wheel of your bike. Wait, there is still a lot more. As you dive into that crystal clear water a penguin greets you. Yes, a penguin! Three turtles are swimming and you spot a marine iguana eating coral. This is Galapagos and this is why, in our opinion, it deserves all the money we have invested in those two weeks.

Also, we left with the feeling that an effort is really being made to preserve this place and its unique species in the world. The more we travel, the more we come across zoos disguised as “sanctuaries” or “recovery centers” and the more we are aware of the protection and conservation made in Galapagos, with the resources they have.

We can only hope that we can return someday and that we will find this paradise of the enchanted islands equally or better than nowadays.

And you? After reading these lines about Galapagos, do you want to visit this special corner of the world?

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Join the conversation.

Loved this article. Very helpful. Question: going to Galapagos in mid April/23. Do you think it is safe to book day trips once there or should we be booking now?

Hi Brian and thank you for your comment, we are glad that you liked our guide.

This depends in several factors: if you book your day trips once in the island you may be able to get a better deal, but normally, the most famous tours (like Bartolomé or Kicker Rock) get sold quickly, so you can risk not being able to find a tour to join if you wait until being there. Our recommendation is that if you have a tight schedule and have a clear understanding of what tours you want to do, it’s better to book in advance (that’s what we did!)

Let us know if you have any doubts and enjoy your trip to paradise!

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Exploring Galapagos Islands on the Cheap: A How-To Guide

S oft, snow-white sand. Belching sea lions at your feet. Radiantly coloured fish swimming before you. These are the things that come to mind when one daydreams of a visit to the Galapagos Islands.

For many, that is all the Galapagos ever is – a mere daydream. It's often dismissed as unfeasible to visit due to its exorbitant costs.

But what if you could travel the Galapagos on a first class, all-inclusive cruise with a personal guide for up to a third of the retail cost? What if you could dine and sleep on <$60 a day in one of the world’s most sought-after holiday destinations? I’m happy to tell you that you that this is not a dream , but a feasible reality that we ourselves have done.

Intrigued? Here's our ultimate guide on how to see Galapagos on the cheap!

• 1 Galapagos 101: What you need to know
• 2 How much does a trip to Galapagos cost?
• 3 Why last minute cruises exist
• 4 How to book a last minute cruise in Galapagos
• 5 Where to book a last minute Galapagos cruise
• 6 Booking a last minute cruise: Must-know facts
• 7 Last minute cruise booking checklist
• 8 When to visit Galapagos
• 9 Getting there: Flights & inter-island transfers
• 10 Where to stay
• 11 What if you don't book a last-minute cruise?

Galapagos 101: What you need to know

First off, yes, you can visit the Galapagos Islands without a tour . This is the most important myth to dispel, as there are four islands that tourists can reside on without being on any sort of tour. These islands are Santa Cruz, San Cristobal (a.k.a. Chatham), Isabela, and Floreana (a.k.a. Charles or Santa Marta). The islands are serviced by ferries.

You can fly into the Galapagos yourself and stay on any of these islands. Santa Cruz and San Cristobal are the busiest, most populated islands and have the most to offer in terms of tours, restaurants, and accommodation. However, all of the islands have beaches, sights, and activities which can be explored for cheap or free on your own. For tips on that, read our post here !

How much does a trip to Galapagos cost?

This depends on how you want to explore the Galapagos, and the flexibility of your trip. If you want to do a pre-booked multi-night cruise, this is the most expensive option. A midpoint alternative would be booking a last minute cruise after arrival. The cheapest approach is to stay on an island and do day tours. In this post we'll compare all of these options!

NOTE:  By using the right credit card, you can save hundreds of dollars on your trip. For example, foreign transaction fees on most credit and debit cards are up to 3%, which add up quickly over a trip. You should use a no foreign transaction fee card like the  Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card to avoid these fees, earn travel points on every purchase, and get a massive sign-up bonus of 60,000 points (worth $750 ) when you hit the minimum spend of $4,000 in the first 3 months with your everyday purchases.

Land based, day tours only

Concept : Stay on an island (and/or island hop), do land or sea-based day tours and visit local sites Pros : Cheaper, flexible option & easy-going pace Cons : Cannot access many islands by day tour Average cost : $500-$800 USD  for 5-nights with activities & food (breakdown below) Example tours: – Puerto Ayora: Bartolome Island and Sulivan Bay Day-Trip – From Santa Cruz: Galapagos, Excursion to Tortuga & Tour – Cerro Mesa Reserve and Garrapatero Beach Tour Book through: GetYourGuide , Viator

Last minute cruise

Concept : Stay on an island & attempt to book a last minute discounted cruise Pros : Significant savings, able to visit more distant islands Cons : No guarantee of finding a cruise, requires flexibility Average cost : $800-$1800+ USD  for a 5+ night cruise (breakdown below)

Pre-booked cruise

Concept : Book a cruise in advance Pros : Security of knowing you have the cruise, route, and class you want Cons : Expensive! Average cost : $2500+ USD  for a 5+ night cruise (breakdown below) Example tours: – Galápagos Islands 5-Day Nature Tour – 6-Day Galápagos Adventure Tour on 4 Islands – San Cristobal: 4-Day Galapagos Island Tour Book through: GetYourGuide , Viator , Intrepid Travel , G Adventures

Land-based, day tours only: Cost breakdown

Basing yourself on an island and taking day tours is the most affordable way to see the Galapagos. Take note once more, there are only four islands in the Galapagos that tourists can stay over on without a tour : Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana.

Detailed cost breakdown:

• Accommodation : prices start at $25+ USD/night for single, budget private room. A basic budget double room is ~$40 USD/night on average.  HotelsCombined.com  is comprehensive for Galapagos and includes hostels.  AirBNB has comparable listings too.
• Food : $5-$15+ USD per meal out (cheaper to eat outside of tourist zone!)
• Tours and activities : $50-$200 USD per tour (land tours cheapest, diving tours most expensive)

GRAND TOTAL : $550-$800+ USD  for 5 nights (varies depending on accommodation, # of tours taken, and where you dine e.g. such as local or DIY meals vs tourist restaurants)

Booking a last minute cruise: Cost breakdown

This approach works for those who are flexible with their trip duration and  are okay with the possibility of not finding a last minute cruise. If you don't find a last minute cruise, you can simply do land-based day tours/island hopping.

Here is a cost breakdown of finding a last minute cruise:

• 5-night cruise : $800-$1700+ USD total (varies by cruise class, duration, route). This is inclusive of accommodation costs.
• Food : included
• Tours and activities : included (note: tipping and other items like wet suits could be extra)

GRAND TOTAL: $800-$1700+ USD

Note: Keep in mind you must also allocate extra costs for accommodation &/or activities before and after your cruise.

Pre-booked cruise: Cost breakdown

A pre-booked cruise is the most costly way to see the Galapagos. This is why people envision The Galapagos as an expensive place. Prices vary by company, class, and route, but you will pay a premium to have a secured spot on a particular ship in advance. There are endless company options, but  Viator , Intrepid Tours , and G Adventures  are popular and have accessible reviews.

• 5-night cruise : $2500-$5000+ USD (varies by class, ship, route, etc.). Accommodation costs included.
• Tours and activities : included (note: tipping and other items like wet suits for diving could be extra)

GRAND TOTAL : $2500+ USD

Note: Keep in mind you must also allocate extra costs for accommodation &/or activities before and after your cruise. Prices vary hugely by company, class, boat size, route, and more.

Why last minute cruises exist

Cruise ships charge outrageous prices in advance for their tickets, preying on holiday-goers who have a fixed annual vacation slot to fill. In reality, these seats do not always sell out and as a departure date approaches, remaining tickets are hugely slashed in price to fill the spots. In both the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador (Quito and Guayaquil), there are businesses that operate entirely on selling last minute cruise tickets.

Now, one can never guarantee a booking within a set timeframe, but there's usually at least some options within a few days window. The worst case scenario is that you don't book a multi-night cruise and do a land-based approach instead. This is arguably not a bad alternative, given the abundance of wildlife and world-class beaches that  can be seen for free or via day tours . We've done this on our second trip to Galapagos, and it worked out great.

At the bottom of this article is a map marked with important reference points. It includes where to book last minute tours and cheap/free activities. 

How to book a last minute cruise in Galapagos

As the name implies, “last minute” cruises must be booked on short notice – typically a few days before departure . Last minute cruises are booked in person, usually at tour shops that specialize in selling vacant cruise spots.

Where to book a last minute Galapagos cruise

Guayaquil, Quito, and the Galapagos Islands (Santa Cruz and San Cristobal specifically) all have shops that sell discounted tours. Below is a list of shops offering last minute tours.

Personally we've only booked on arrival to Galapagos (in Santa Cruz), which is usually the cheapest option. Mainland tourist shops find cruises the exact same way as Galapagos-based companies; that is, by making a phone call to contacts in the islands. However, cruises sold on the mainland often involve increased pressure to book and (false) claims that you definitely won't find cruises on arrival.

Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz

Moonrise tour agency.

About : This is a family run business that mainly specializes in last minute cruises. We used them in 2013 to book several day trips and were pleased with their service and the tours themselves. Address : Avenida Charles Darwin near the corner of Charles Binford (See map) Website :  www.galapagosmoonrise.com Phone : 05/2526-589

Joybe Tours

About : This is another family run business that sells day tours and last minute cruises. We used them in 2013 to book our multi-night last minute cruise and were hugely impressed with our first-class cruise! Address : See map Website : N/A Phone : N/A

Quito & Guayaquil

About : Based in Quito and Guayaquil, this company occasionally posts last minute deals on their website, otherwise visit in-person in Quito. Note: this recommendation comes from Frommer's (we haven't personally used them). Address : Quito – Almagro N31-80, Edificio Venecia. Guayaquil – in the Edificio Samborondon Business Center, Torre A Piso 3. Website : www.ecoventura.com Phone : Quito – 02/2907-396, Quayquil – 04/2839-390

Quasar Expeditions

About : One of the bigger cruise operators and also has an office in Puerto Ayora. Note: this recommendation comes from Frommer's (we haven't personally used them). Address : Quito – Almagro Plaza, Ponce Carrasco E8-06 y Av. Diego de Almagro, Oficinas 1101-1106 Website : www.quasarex.com Phone : USA – 1.866.481.7790, UK – 0.800.883.0827, Australia – 1.800.463.266

Zenith Ecuador Travel

About : Has access to ~100 boats and can reach contacts to try and find a last-minute deal. Simply provide your dates and requirements and ask to speak to eh owner, Marcos Endara (tell him you are a Frommer's reader). Note: this recommendation comes from Frommer's (we haven't personally used them). Address : Quito – Juan León Mera 453 and Roca Website : www.zenithecuador.com Phone : 02/2529-993

Booking a last minute cruise: Must-know facts

Choosing a route, boat, and company, routes & itineraries.

Whatever you do, don't book a last minute tour blindly. Research your preferences ahead of time, including which islands you want to see. Each island and cruise route offers unique wildlife and scenery. Some itineraries focus more on landscapes, while others feature diving or wildlife.

There are more “typical” cruise ship routes which include visiting islands that you can see independently on day tours (e.g. Floreana, Bartolome, etc.). These routes tend to be cheaper since they are closer to the main islands, whereas those going to more remote islands are more costly.

Companies & boat types

When choosing a boat and a company, try to look up reviews in advance. Where possible, find out who will be the naturist guide, as this is the wildlife narrator of your entire trip! Trip Advisor is a good place to get trip reports on companies, boats, and tour guides. It can also be a useful place for determining the going rate for full price and last-minute bargains for ships, routes, and classes.

As you research, make a shortlist of boats and routes that meet your approval (we've got a handy list below). It will be hard to remember this on the spot, so we really do advise making a “must have” list. You can then cross-check this against the last-minute options available. You may wish to print this out beforehand in case wifi is not accessible.

Allow buffer time & bring CASH

If your holiday time is fixed, you may want to book two weeks off if you want to do a 5-7 day cruise. Buffer room is essential. In our experience, we had 12 days which was plenty to book a 5-night cruise in two days time. It may take a couple days  of popping in and out of cruise shops to find a ship/route you like that works with your departure date.

Take note that most last minute tour offices only accept cash for tour bookings.  Be  sure to know your bank’s daily withdrawal limit, bring some cash ahead of time, determine your tour budget and ensure that you can withdraw that amount over a couple of days beforehand to pay for your cruise.

Know what's included in your tour

When booking, be sure to clarify what is included in the price (meals, diving equipment, tours, etc.) . Most often alcohol is not included, so if you want to drink, factor this into your on-board cash stash. Finally, tipping is expected. Be sure to bring cash for this too so you can tip crew members after your tour ends.

Be wary of bottom of rock bottom deals

Tread cautiously around extremely cheap cruises.  Reduced costs may be due to under-qualified guides with limited English, or boats that are crammed or unreliable. There's nothing like forking out a wad of cash for a disappointing trip. Know what you want, be prepared to ask questions, then show up and see what's on hand.

Last minute cruise booking checklist

Here is a checklist when booking!

Our experience booking a last minute tour

In 2013 we booked a 5-night, first class cruise for less than one third of the retail price. We did so within two days of arrival to Santa Cruz and booked at Joybe Tours. Our boat was The Odyssey , a 16-person yacht that included visited the Isabela, Fernandina, and Bartholomew Islands. We had a very knowledgeable and friendly guide, great food, and tours. It was the rainy season when we visited (December), which meant occasional drizzle, warmer ocean water for swimming, and less tourists.

In total, we paid $840 USD each for our all-inclusive first-class cruise . We splashed out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience, but there were cheaper alternatives available. The less pricey options were lower class boats that visited islands we could (and later did) access via day tour.

When to visit Galapagos

When is the best time of year to visit the Galapagos? The truth is, there are benefits to visiting in different months. Galapagos birds, fish, and animals have different breeding  seasons, so you can see surges of particular species at various times of the year.

• The warm, rainy season is from late   December to June . This means warmer waters for swimming, but the chance of cloud and showers (though these are often quick passing).
• The cool, dry season is from  late June to December.  “Cool” is a relative term here as the days are still warm but the water is cooler. As the temperatures are a bit more comfortable, this is the breeding season for sea lions, shore birds, fur seals, marine iguanas, which is exciting for wildlife viewing.
• Peak periods include Christmas/New Years (late December/early January), and June to September. Consider that you will have a harder time finding last minute cruises and accommodation during these periods. It may be wise to at least book accommodation ahead during peak times.

Getting there: Flights & inter-island transfers

The cheapest way to get to Galapagos from Ecuador is between  Quito, Ecuador and  Baltra Airport, Galapagos (GPS).  Baltra is the airport for Santa Cruz, even though it is physically located on a different island. After landing in Baltra, tourists are immediately transported to Puorto Ayora, Santa Cruz by bus and ferry. Be sure to have small cash for these transports (a few dollars will suffice). Alternatively, you can pre-book an airport arrival transfer direct to your hotel, which includes all ferry tickets and coach transfers, and the option to stop at the Charles Darwin Station. Departure transfers are also available.

If you wish, it is possible to plan an open-jaw trip by flying into one island and out of another. You can transfer between islands by ferry ( pre-book on Viator ), and fly in or out of San Cristobal (SCY) airport.

Flight costs

If you book in advance (~6+ weeks), a flight to Baltra should be around $200+ USD  one-way from Quito. You will find the best rates by searching  Skyscanner , and we recommend selecting “whole month” when searching to find the cheapest day.

If you're not planning to start or end in Quito, try searching from your preceding destination to the Baltra Airport anyway. There's a good chance Skyscanner will be able to find a cheap route between the two points, usually connecting via Quito or Guayaquil.

For more hacks on how to find cheap flights to Galapagos , check out our other posts:

• How to Book the Cheapest Flight Possible to Anywhere
• How to Fly Cheap in South America: A Guide to Budget Airlines and Air Passes
• How to Find Airline Mistake Fares (& Get Ridicuously Cheap Flights)

How to get between islands in Galapagos

A handful of islands in the Galapagos can be accessed by transfer ferries. You can book these yourself in person by showing up at the relevant dock. Transferring islands is essential if you wish to book an option-jaw flight (flying into one island and out of another).

Generally speaking, there is one early morning (e.g. 6AM) and one afternoon (e.g. 2PM) ferry between islands each day. These are general time estimates subject to change, and you must confirm this on arrival as it varies by island. It's recommended to buy ferry tickets the day prior so you know the timing in advance.

Prices range from around $20-$60USD one-way depending on the island. As of 2016 prices between San Cristobal and Santa Cruz were $30 USD one way.  This website provides a schedule, but we cannot take liability for errors in the schedule or price ( confirm in person and in advance of your travel plans). Alternatively, pre-book your island transfer with pickup direct from your hotel on Viator ( San Cristobal to Santa Cruz  and  Santa Cruz to San Cristobal ).

Where to stay

Before flying into the Galapagos Islands, you'll likely start your trip in Quito or Guayaquil. From there, you can fly to Baltra or San Cristobal and stay in one of four islands where tourists are allowed to stay. These include Santa Cruz, San Cristobal (a.k.a. Chatham), and Floreana (a.k.a. Charles or Santa Marta).

Quito, Ecuador

Hotel plaza internacional.

The Hotel Plaza Internacional is what I call a budget “boutique” hotel. This colonial-style accommodation will set you back $26 USD/night for a private double room with an ensuite.

My best friend and I stayed here in November 2015 on our “flashpacking” trip (i.e. you can get cheaper but this is good value for what it is). We loved the generous free breakfast (eggs are extra but worth it!), and the gorgeous city view. The hotel staff were very helpful and were always be happy to flag a taxi on our behalf to ensure a fair price.

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Villa garza inn.

The Villa Garza Inn  ( read reviews ) is another mid-range budget option that is clean, spacious, and with a friendly staff on board. Most attractively this hotel includes FREE transport to and from the airport. The price per night is $44/USD, but factoring in the inclusion of transport, free wifi, and a private ensuite room – this is a pretty good option. Ask the owners for food recommendations nearby, we had phenomenal asado (BBQ meat) up the street!

Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos

Santa Cruz is the busiest of the four tourist islands. Its capital, Puerto Ayora, is filled with tourist shops, tour booking agencies, bars, and even a small grocery store. There are several land-based activities accessible here, including lava tunnels, a tortoise sanctuary, and a lagoon (check our post here for ideas).

Santa Cruz has the most booking agencies for day trips and last minute tours, so this is arguably your best starting point if you're trying to snag a discounted cruise.

Hotel España

We stayed at Hotel España  ( read reviews ) in 2013 and once again in November 2015. This is a clean, centrally-located budget option that starts at ~$29USD/night for a single private room with an ensuite. It's definitely a great “flashpacker” style option, especially if you get a room in the newer half of the building. Free functional wifi and a TV are included. The main lobby has hammocks that are perfect for swinging in with a beer at the end of a jam-packed day!

San Cristobal Island, Galapagos

San Cristobal is the second busiest of the islands that tourists can stay on. It is noticeably less buzzing and built up, but is still freckled with tourist shops and restaurants. The peace and quiet can certainly be a welcome reprieve from the busyness of Santa Cruz, and it does offer some stunning hikes and snorkel sights accessible on foot.

Hostal Laura de Casa

This cute little hostel is clean, fairly close to the main strip, and is colourfully outfitted. During our visit in November 2015 the wifi was strong and so too was the hot water. The owners have created an adorable garden here where guests can lounge. Single rooms start at $25 USD/night.

Floreana Island, Galapagos

Floreana is the quietest inhabited island, with a population of just 150. Unfortunately (or fortunately!), the tranquility means far less options for accommodation and dining. Most commonly tourists stay on Santa Cruz and/or San Cristobal, but if your budget allows it, there are definitely more off-the-beaten track vibes to be had here.

Isabela Island

One of the most volcanically active places on earth, this is the largest island in the Galapagos. On offer here is plenty of volcanic landscapes, the second largest volcanic crater on earth, and colourful wildlife including flamingos and sea turtles. We haven't stayed overnight at this island but made a day visit to it during our multi-night cruise in 2013 and it was incredible! Transfers from Santa Cruz to Isabela Island can be pre-booked on Viator .

Book in advance or on arrival?

Accommodation in Galapagos is a bit pricier to book ahead online, but can be essential during peak travel periods such as Christmas and New Years. We've visited twice (in November and February) and booked accommodation on arrival during these visits. While not booking ahead is a gamble no matter what, you can usually determine how busy it is based on remaining availability on sites like Booking.com .

Keep in mind that in South America, many accommodation options are not listed online. Countless times while backpacking we would panic upon discovering no accommodation vacancies online, only to find that there were many (unlisted) places available when we arrived.  If you're hesitant to book on arrival , you can always book your first night or two and then explore your options when you get there.

For more tricks and websites to help get the best hotel rates when you travel, check out “ How to Book the Cheapest Hotel Possible “!

What if you don't book a last-minute cruise?

Put simply, being land-based is not a bad way to explore the Galapagos. If you aren't looking to visit remote islands or particular diving/spots sights, then you probably won't be disappointed with this option!

If you want to see the main highlights of Galapagos – sea lions, volcanic craters, tortoises, marine iguanas, glimmering beaches and the like – you can do all of this being land-based . Remember, you can also island hop to San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Floreana without a tour, offering your own DIY island exploration.

Day tours are highly recommended (do at least a couple!). This will allow you to see islands that you can't access without a tour (which is the majority of them). Prices range from $70-$200+ USD and most include a meal (diving/snorkel trips are priciest). Bartolomé Island is an excellent tour for stunning scenery. South Plaza Island (Isla Plazas) showcases yellow land iguanas and gorgeous contrasts of red and green flora from cacti and shrubbery.

Besides booking tours, you can also visit beaches, lagoons, lava tubes, tortoise reserves entirely on your own. Keen to snorkel or kayak? You can even rent that gear yourself. For detailed ideas on how to explore the islands yourself, check out our article on cheap & free Galapagos activities .

Eating cheap & local

Get off the tourist strip.

If you wander a bit, you'll find Mom and Pop restaurants lining the backstreets, just North of the tourist strip. Prices are around the $5 mark per meal. Take note these are true hole in the wall places (to keep well, check our health tips here to avoid food poisoning!).

When in doubt or lost in translation, just ask for the platos del dia or almuerzo (plate of the day) which is usually a tasty, filling combination of soup, salad, rice, and a meat (often fried fish or chicken). Yum!

Make or bring your own food & snacks

Making your own meals helps stretch the funds here. San Cristobal actually has a small grocery store where you can stockpile items like tuna, bread, and produce for a DIY picnic anywhere. Prices are still shockingly higher than the mainland, but these DIY meals are much cheaper than a meal on the tourist strip.

Keep in mind that you cannot bring any produce (e.g. fruit, veg) out of protection for the flora here. Even some packaged goods like nuts may be sacked by airport security.

The Thrifty Gist

• Consider a land-based approach to seeing Galapagos via day tours or free/cheap activities on your own
• Avoid booking ahead for a multi-night cruise if you can
• If booking a last minute cruise, be sure to bring cash and/or know your bank's daily withdrawal limit
• Consider basic accommodation, pack some of your own meals, and/or check out local dining spots to cut costs. Save your budget for tours and exploring!

Related Posts

• 10 Ways to Explore the Galapagos on a Budget
• How to Plan Your Own Trip (& Save Big Travel Bucks)

Have you travelled the Galapagos on a shoestring? How did you cut costs? Have a general question or comment on how to do the islands cheaply? Share below!

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Thanks for the info Jen. I have a couple of questions – do you have any advice/comments on a single woman travelling alone? and since day trips don’t go to some islands, would it be a good idea to check for day trips first and then maybe book a multi-day cruise to islands that don’t have day trips? thanks, Maggie

I was wondering how you would book a last minute cruise yet still be able to have nice accommodations in case you don’t find one.

Thanks, Mary

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13 Things to Do in the Galapagos Islands & Tips for Your Visit

• Ecuador / Galapagos Islands / In the City / Outdoors / South America

We are currently in the Philippines (learn our Philippines trip  here and here ). Meanwhile, I wanted to give you an overview of our trip to the Galapagos Islands.

Galapagos National Park covers 97% of the 18 islands and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Only four of the islands are inhabited by people: Santa Cruz, Floreana, Isabela, and San Cristobal. We were able to visit Santa Cruz Island and Isabella Island during our 4-day stay, and these were the highlights of our trip in the order that we visited them.

WHERE ARE THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS LOCATED?

In case you didn’t know, the Galapagos Islands are part of Ecuador in South America and are located nearly 1000 km or 600 mi off the coast of Ecuador.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• You must book a cruise 1 year in advance. We booked 3 months in advance and only had the option of land tours.
• The land tour was through Galapagos Alternative , who booked all our activities and hotels. I wouldn’t recommend them especially because some of the operators didn’t show up on time and had us waiting half an hour or more.
• You can also check out Surtrek Adventures as an option, they’re specialist in South American trips.
• Cruises are pricier, but I would recommend the cruise if your priority is to see a lot of different animals and landscapes since it transports you to each island while you are sleeping rather than taking up part of your day.
• Our priority was seeing the animals and photography. If it is yours also, you can search by animal here and see which islands to visit.
• If you are not going on a photography specific tour, they usually move at too quick of a pace to capture great wildlife photography. The tours will usually be snap and go. This was one of our first trips where we focused on wildlife photography, and we learned how much time and patience it takes.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read  our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

13 THINGS TO DO IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Click the links to see more details on each excursion. Be prepared for lots of photos. I haven’t taken so many photos since I quit wedding photography !

1. Los Gemelos, Santa Cruz Island

Distance Trail 1:  500 m / 0.3 mi Distance Trail 2: 723 m / 0.45 mi Time required: 1 hr 30 mins Hours:  6AM – 6PM

Twin Craters formed by the collapse of the volcanic roof. They are not actual craters caused by impact but are sink holes that were created when the volcanic roof of empty magma chambers collapsed from tectonic shifts and erosion over time.

Los Gemelos, Isla Santa Cruz,  map

2. Lava Tunnels, Santa Cruz Island

Trail length: 2 km / 1.2 mi Hours: 8AM – 5PM

In Bellavista village in the Highlands of Santa Cruz Island, you can walk through lava tunnels or lava tubes. They were formed by flowing lava that moves under the hardened surface of lava flow. They drain lava and once the lava flow stops and the rock cools, it leaves behind a cave. The Lava Tunnels are just 7 km (4.3 miles) inland from Puerto Ayora, the main town where most people base themselves.

Note: Bring sturdy shoes and some crawling required.

Bellavista, Isla Santa Cruz, map

3. Rancho Primicias (Santa Cruz) Galapagos Tortoise Ranch

Rancho Primicias is a Giant Galapagos Tortoise ranch or reserve. It was exciting being able to take photos with one of the most iconic animals of Galapagos Islands!

Note: You will have to stay 2 m (6.5 ft) away from them, but these guys were pretty intimidating to get near anyways.

Rancho Primicias, Isla Santa Cruz, map

4. Fish Market of Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz)

We saw that fishermen were unloading their catches from the day, and locals picked out their dinner while tourists took photos of pelicans trying to steal the fish or waiting for scraps. It was a nice spot to do people and bird watching. Here you will find shore birds picking up fish scraps and also sally lightfoot crabs and iguanas.

The fish market becomes an outdoor restaurant that opens in the evening. It has a set menu, but you get a plate full of seafood and two sides for a really good price (around $5)!

Ave Charles Darwin, Puerto Ayora, map

5. Snorkel with Sea lions in La Loberia

La Loberia was only a short boat ride from Puerto Ayora. These sea lions will come up and swim with you and sometimes playfully nip at your fins. In case you get confused with the names La Loberia or Loberia because you see it everywhere, it just means sea lion community. Why not keep it simple and name it how it is. There are several sea lion colonies on each island that are commonly called loberia.

You can expect to see sea lions and sea turtles at many of the snorkeling sites.

Other spots to snorkel with sea lions:

• La Loberia, Floreana Island – It’s a 2 hour boat ride from Santa Cruz. There’s a 900 m / 0.5 mi path that takes you to a sea lion colony, which are the main attraction here. You can also see marine iguanas, sea turtles. Snorkeling for all levels and also kayaking available. A tour includes Asilo de La Paz where you can see dolphins and whales when in season.
• La Loberia, San Cristobal Island – San Cristobal is where it’s at when it comes to sea lions. Not only can you snorkel with tons of sea lions, but you will also see marine iguanas, lava lizards, frigate birds, and more. If you want to skip the 30 min walk from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno to the beach, take a taxi (around $3). The beach is open 24 hours.
• Playa Mann, San Cristobal Island
• Punta Estrada Beach, Santa Cruz – there is a small dock where water taxis arrive and is a great place to snorkel. If you’re diving, the depth is up to 11 m (36 ft) and visibility 5 – 12 m (16 – 40 ft), and you can also see sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and more. The trail from the dock leads to Playa de los Perros .
• Santa Fe, Santa Cruz Island
• Los Tuneles, Isabela Island – one of the most popular day tours on Isabela. You can see sea lions, penguins, green sea turtles, white tipped reef sharks, blue-footed boobies, golden sting rays, sea horses, tropical fish, and more. Great for beginners and kids.
• Las Tintoreras Islet, Isabela Island – the islet is 10 minutes off Isabela. You can swim with sea lions, penguins, sea turtles, eagle rays, and you can see blue footed boobies and sally lightfoot crabs.
• Laguna Concha y Perla or “Shell and Peral Lagoon”, Isabela Island – great for beginners and kids. You’ll see sea lions, sea turtles, manta rays, penguins, white tipped sharks, marine iguanas, tropical fish, and more. This place is crowded.
• Kicker Rock, San Cristobal Island – you can snorkel with sea lions, white-tipped sharks, eagle rays, sea turtles and on rare occasions Galapagos sharks, hammerhead sharks, and dolphins. Snorkeling is available for all levels but diving is only for intermediate to advanced.
• Lobos Islet, San Cristobal Island – there isn’t much other than swimming with sea lions, but they are the main attraction.
• Sombrero Chino Islet or Chinese Hat, Santiago Island – sea lions, marine iguanas, sally lightfoot crabs, lava lizards, white tipped reef sharks, and if you’re lucky Galapagos penguins. This small island is not as crowded since it’s protected by the Park. Bring good walking shoes.
• Bartolome – swim with sea lions, Galapagos white tipped reef sharks, and a colony of penguins.
• James Bay, Santiago Island – easy snorkeling and you see sea lions, penguins, rays, sharks, and sometimes octopus. If you’re lucky you’ll get to snorkel with both California sea lions and fur sea lions.

Note: Be aware of swimming in certain areas. Alpha male sea lions can be protective of their territory.

6. Playa de Los Perros, Santa Cruz

Here you will see Marine Iguanas and sharks in the Canal de las Tintoreras (shark canals).

7. Cliff Jumping at Las Grietas (Santa Cruz)

Distance: 550 m / 0.3 mi

Time: 20 min

Hours: 6AM – 6PM

Las Grietas is literally translated as “crevice”. We did some light hiking over lava rocks and passed salt lagoons to Las Grietas, but once we arrived, we had to go down steep stairs onto an area of large rocks.

Note: It was so crowded that we ended up hanging out on the rocks watching other people cliff jump and snorkel.

8. Hike to Tortuga Beach and Tortuga Bay (Santa Cruz)

Distance: 2500 m / 1.56 mi Hours: 6AM – 6PM

A 45 minute hike leads you to a beach and bay for snorkeling. You can typically see white tip reef sharks, and occasionally tiger sharks, but when we went the water was murky and all the fish were gone. There were, however, plenty of shore birds and marine iguanas in the water and on the beach.

9. Hang out with Sea Lions at the Bay on Isabela Island

10. las tintoreras islet, isabela island.

Las Tintoreras is and islet just 10 minutes off of Isabela and is often called mini Galapagos since almost all the marine wildlife are here. There is actually more wildlife here than on the main island. This is a wonderful habitat for the Galapagos penguins, the second smallest penguins in the world, and we also snorkeled with sea turtles and saw sharks in the canals called Shark Alley.

You can either take a boat or kayak out with a guide.

11. Hike to Volcano Sierra Negra, Isabela Island

The world’s second largest volcanic crater.

12. Campo Duro, Isabela Island

a Galapagos safari camp and quaint highlands farm with roaming giant tortoises.

13. Bike around the Wetlands, Isabela Island

We explored along the coastline by bike and found tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies!

BONUS. Snorkel or Dive at Devil’s Crown, Floreana Island

We didn’t have a chance to do this, but this will absolutely be on our next trip’s itinerary. The jagged rocks roughly resemble a crown that only the devil would wear, and this spot has the reputation of being one of the top diving and snorkeling spots in all of the Galapagos and the world.

What You See: The rocks are an attractive spot for both small and large fish, and it’s common to see a variety of coral and schools of fish including the parrotfish, king angelfish, grouper, snappers, warasses, amberjacks, yellow-tailed grunts, scorpion fish, and surgeonfish. On the inside of the crown, you will find pencil sea urchins, garden eels, and moray eels. If you’re lucky, you can see white tipped reef sharks, hammerheads, large manta rays, eagle rays, moorish idol fish (Gill from Nemo!), and a sea lion from the nearby colony.

Note: This can only be reached on a cruise, and not all stop on Devil’s Crown for a snorkeling excursion, so check the different itineraries. Because of the strong currents, it’s only for strong swimmers and divers.

Snorkel or Kayak at Punta Espinosa, Fernandina Island

Punta Espinosa is on the Bolivar Channel on the western side of Fernandina Island.

What You See: Galapagos dolphins, humpback whales, orcas, pilot whales, sea lions, cormorants, marine iguanas, sea turtles. If you’re lucky, you’ll see Galapagos penguins or flightless cormorants swimming.

Tips for your visit to the Galapagos Islands

Each individual post will have specific tips for the excursion.

• Bring small change in US dollars, which is their currency.
• It was 100 USD to enter the Galapagos Islands, and an additional $5 to enter Isabela Island.
• Learn some Spanish ! The majority of the people there do not speak English, so it helps to know the basics.
• If you are traveling between islands, try to travel by plane instead of by small boats. If you don’t have a choice, bring motion sickness medication. It’s very likely that you will get motion sick with its poor ventilation combined with choppy waters. I kid you not, 3 people threw up on our boat, and I felt sick the entire time. If you don’t feel sick from the boat, you will feel sick from the smell of vomit.
• Print your flight itineraries and bring them just in case, because sometimes smaller international airports want to see a printed copy before they let you inside.
• Will be putting together photography tips and a how to pack video & blog for a 4 day trip to the Galapagos soon!

Check out our  video montage  of our Galapagos trip! Any of these seem like interesting excursions to you?

ESTHER + JACOB

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 25 travel blogs in the world. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city every year and currently base themselves in NYC.

This Post Has 7 Comments

oh my goodness. that tortoise is truly giant. I love it!

Thanks Nicole! I saw photos before the trip, but it was unreal seeing them in person. It’s so hard to imagine that they are so much older than me!

OK, this post is bookmarked!! Such amazing photos. Now 3 things on my list: 1. book a trip to Galapagos. 2. Get a good camera. 3. Learn how to take awesome photos!

Thank you so much, Amanda! I hope you get to do all three ASAP! :)

As IF there is a giant tortoise ranch. That’s brilliant. Your photos are astoundingly beautiful, I am now going to drink a cup of tea and battle my increasing wanderlust.

I’m looking forward to seeing more of your tips for travelling there. The Galapagos Islands have been on my must see list forever.

I know you will LOVE it! :) There were tortoise ranches and farms, but they were also roaming around different parts of the island. It’s crazy.

Also thanks so much for complimenting our photos. Means so much to me. :)

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Home > Galapagos > THE BEST GALAPAGOS ITINERARY – FROM 4 TO 10 DAYS

The Best Galapagos Itinerary: 4, 5, 7, and 10 Days.

• Last Updated: April 18, 2024

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, a trip to the Galapagos Islands should be at the top of your list. As someone who has explored this incredible archipelago extensively, I’ve created the best land-based multi-day Galapagos Itinerary for travelers who want to experience the best that this paradise has to offer. From hiking through volcanic landscapes to swimming with sea lions, my itineraries offer a range of experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories of this magical place.

Table of Contents

Introduction to the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are an absolute paradise off the coast of Ecuador, offering some of the world’s most unique wildlife and jaw-dropping natural scenery. These islands are not only a visual feast but also hold a remarkable scientific significance. They were famously visited by Charles Darwin in 1835, who drew inspiration from the variety of species and their unique features, leading to the development of the theory of evolution.

The Galapagos Islands are home to an impressive collection of animals, including giant tortoises, penguins, marine iguanas, and an array of bird species like blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. The best part about a visit to the Galapagos is the chance to witness these creatures in their natural habitats, providing an unforgettable and personal experience that is unparalleled in other destinations.

For thrill-seekers, the Galapagos Islands offer a plethora of opportunities to explore the volcanic terrain, hike to incredible viewpoints, and dive into crystal-clear waters filled with marine life. In addition, the islands are a hub for eco-tourism, offering a chance to learn about conservation efforts and sustainable practices.

All in all, the Galapagos Islands are an enchanting and captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and education and are considered by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. With endless sights to see and experiences to have, it’s no surprise that a visit to the Galapagos is on the bucket list of so many travelers worldwide. With that in mind I’ve come together with the best land-based Galapagos itinerary to make your dream adventure a reality.  

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Factors to Consider when Choosing a Galapagos Islands Itinerary

Choosing the perfect Galapagos itinerary is essential to have an unforgettable trip. There are a few factors to consider when making your choice, such as:

• The time you have available for your adventure,
• What islands you want to explore,
• The wildlife you want to see,
• Which  activities you’d like to participate in,
• Whether you prefer a more laid-back or action-packed experience .

By considering your interests and preferences, you can select an Galapagos itinerary that suits you best and ensures an amazing adventure in this unique destination.

What to Expect on a 4-day Galapagos Itinerary

Are you looking for a quick yet unforgettable adventure in the Galapagos Islands? Then a 4-day Galapagos itinerary is an excellent option for you! This itinerary allows you to explore some of the archipelago’s most incredible wildlife and natural scenery, all in a shorter period of time. In this guide, I’ll provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your 4-day trip, including highlights and activities you won’t want to miss.

To make the most of your time, I suggest that you choose one of the three main islands (Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, or Isabela) as your home base. Trust me, each island has its own unique charm, wildlife, and natural wonders that you won’t want to miss. Trying to visit multiple main islands in just 4 days may leave you feeling rushed and stressed, and you might not get to see everything you want. By staying in one place, you can explore at a relaxed pace and soak up all the amazing experiences that the Galapagos has to offer.

Remember that the main airports of the archipelago are in Santa Cruz Island (Baltra) and in San Cristobal Island, so for the Galapagos itinerary where you visit Isabela Island you should book your return flight at the latest possible time.

• Arrive at San Cristobal’s Airport on the 10 am flight.
• Take a taxi to your hotel and unpack.
• Go for a walk on Puerto Baquerizo Moreno’s Malecón, where you can watch sea lions relaxing on the beach.
• Visit San Cristobal’s Interpretation Center for an introduction to the island’s culture and history.
• Hike to Cerro Tijeretas Hill to see the view of the turquoise water underneath.
• Go for a hike to Playa Baquerizo Beach or swim with baby sea lions at Muelle Tijeretas dock.
• Enjoy lunch at any of the Malecóns restaurants.
• Book a 360 Tour at Galapagos Eco-Fishing for the next day.
• Do the Highlands Tour with a taxi of your choice to see El Junco Crater, the giant Tortoises Center, and Puerto Chino Beach.
• Return before sunset to the town where you will go for a shower at the hotel and have dinner in the Malecón.
• Start the day early by heading to the Galapagos Eco-Fishing store for your tour.
• Opt for the tour that starts first at Leon Dormido/Kicker Rock to have more chances of spotting Hammerhead sharks while snorkeling.
• On the tour visit beautiful beaches like the Bahia Rosa Blanca Beach and snorkel in a huge lagoon inside the island with rays and huge turtles.
• With luck, you will fish some fresh tuna and eat sashimi on the boat.
• Return to town, have dinner and sleep, or spend some time walking around the peaceful town.
• If you’re into diving, go for the Kicker Rock Dive , one of the most famous in the Galapagos.
• Alternatively, go to  Española Island , one of the most beautiful and unique islands of the archipelago, with endemic species like the pink and green iguana and the waved albatross.
• If you’re on a budget, visit La Loberia Beach by taxi, foot, or bicycle, and swim with sea lions or surf.
• In the evening, go to Playa Mann Beach or Punta Carola Beach for more surfing/relaxing next to downtown.
• The flight leaves at around 13h, so it’s best to go for a quick souvenir shopping or head to a nearby beach in town.
• Allow plenty of time to get through the airport controls and procedures before your departure. 

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• Arrive at Baltra’s Airport on the 10-11 am flight.
• Take a Bus-Taxi Boat-Shuttle to your hotel and unpack.
• Go for a leisurely stroll in Puerto Ayora’s town, where you can go to the Fish Market or see the stores in the Malecón.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at any of Malecón’s restaurants.
• After lunch, head to the Charles Darwin Interpretation Center to see the giant tortoises and learn about the history of the Galapagos and its conservation projects.
• Book a Highlands Tour to explore the Lava Tunnels ,  Los Gemelos Twin Craters , and  Giant Tortoise Ranch .
• Once the tour is over and you’re back in Puerto Ayora, book your tours for the next day, either a Bartolome Island Tour or a Gordon Rocks Diving Tour (if you’re into diving) to see Hammerhead sharks and rays.
• After that, indulge in some delicious dinner in town and get some rest, as you have an exciting day ahead.
• Start the day early by heading to the tour agency shop to begin your full-day tour.
• Both these tours are mind-blowing, and you’re going to love them, I guarantee you!
• Lunch will be served on the boat, and you’ll be back in Puerto Ayora by sunset.
• After returning to town, book a Bay Tour  to see Las Grietas the next morning.
• Enjoy dinner and soak up Puerto Ayora’s vibrant nightlife.
• Start the day by meeting your tour operator and begin the Bay Tour to see the Love Chanel and Las Grietas . If you prefer, you can also visit them without a tour; all you need is to take a taxi-boat there and then stay at Alemanes Beach if you can.
• Once back in Puerto Ayora, go for lunch and visit the Nymphs Lagoon (Laguna de Las Ninfas) on your way to Tortuga Bay , the most beautiful beach on Santa Cruz Island.
• In Tortuga Bay, you can surf, snorkel, relax, and enjoy your time there; stay for the entire afternoon if you wish.
• After the sunset, return to Puerto Ayora, shop for some souvenirs, and enjoy your last evening in the Galapagos.
• Most flights leave at around lunchtime, so it’s best to head to the airport as soon as possible.
• Don’t forget to check out the airport shops for some last-minute shopping.
• Allow plenty of time to get through the airport controls and procedures before your departure.

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• Take a Bus-Taxi Boat-Shuttle to Puerto Ayora’s downtown.
• Take the 2 pm ferry to Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island’s town.
• Check-in at your hotel, unpack and relax.
• Book a Sierra Negra Volcano Tour  for the next day, a Los Tuneles Tour for the 3rd day, and the speedboat at 6 am on the 4th day with your hotel.
• Go for dinner around town and go to the hotel to rest for the next day’s volcano hiking.
• Start the day early by heading to the entrance of your hotel to start the tour.
• Hike Sierra Negra Volcano , enjoy the breathtaking views, and learn about the history of the island.
• After the hike, go snorkeling at  Concha de Perla Lagoon  and see some turtles, marine iguanas, and rays. If you don’t like snorkeling, check out the flamingo lagoon right next to town before sunset.
• Go for dinner at one of the beach restaurants and enjoy the sea view while having a delicious fish meal.
• Head back to your hotel to rest.
• Today it’s  Los Tuneles Tour , the coolest snorkeling tour in the Galapagos.
• Get ready to see penguins, turtles, reef sharks, rays, underwater lava-rock tunnels, and on the surface blue-footed boobies, and an amazing landscape.
• You’ll have lunch on the boat during the tour.
• After the tour, go see what you didn’t see the day before, visit the Flamingos Lagoon or Concha de Perla Lagoon.
• Enjoy your last night on the island, preferably next to the sea.
• Be sure to book a flight that leaves at 13h so you have time to do this itinerary (otherwise it’s safer to go back to Puerto Ayora on the 3rd day).
• Take the 6 am speedboat to Santa Cruz, where you’ll arrive around 9 am.
• Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to observe the giant Galapagos tortoises and learn something about the conservation efforts of the Galapagos and its history.
• After the visit, get a taxi to Itabaca Channel, a taxi-boat, and a bus to the airport.
• Do some souvenir shopping at the airport.

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Puerto villamil beach in isabela, highlights of a 5-day galapagos itinerary.

I recommend a 5-day Galapagos itinerary that includes either extending the 4-day itinerary by adding an extra day for relaxation or including a tour that was missed out earlier, or adjusting the existing tours to fit in the extra day comfortably.

Alternatively, you could opt for a 5-day Galapagos itinerary that starts with a flight to San Cristobal Island, followed by a visit to Santa Cruz Island, and then departing from the Santa Cruz airport, instead of returning to San Cristobal. Another option is to follow the Isabela Island-based 4-day Galapagos itinerary but with added highlights of Santa Cruz Island. Let me give you more details on each of these options.

• Order a taxi to your hotel and unpack.
• Take a walk on Puerto Baquerizo Moreno’s Malecón, where you can watch sea lions relaxing on the beach.
• Take the speedboat to Santa Cruz Island at 7 am.
• Arrive at 9:30 – 10 am in Puerto Ayora.
• Drop your bags at the hotel and head to the docks to catch a taxi-boat to Las Grietas.
• Snorkel in  Las Grietas  and return to Puerto Ayora.
• Pick up a sandwich for lunch or a quick snack and make your way to  Tortuga Bay Beach .
• Snorkel, relax and enjoy the most beautiful beach in Santa Cruz.
• Hike back to town after one or two hours to do the  Highlands Tour  at 2 pm or stay relaxing on the beach if it’s your last day in the Galapagos.
• If you manage to be back in town by 2 pm, do the Tour of the Highlands of Santa Cruz. Alternatively, take a taxi that takes you to the Lava Tunnels, Los Gemelos, and Giant Tortoise Ranch.
• Once you’re back in Puerto Ayora, go for a stroll to relax from such a compact day and do some shopping, go for a craft beer, have dinner, and enjoy the only bustling vibrant town of the archipelago.
• If you’re an early riser, go for a quick educational session at the  Charles Darwin Research Station  on your last day.
• Pack your bags, have breakfast, do the checkout, and start making your way to the airport.
• If you didn’t have time to shop in Puerto Ayora, there are plenty of shops at the airport.

• Grab a Bus-Taxi Boat-Shuttle to Puerto Ayora’s downtown.
• Take a leisurely stroll in Puerto Ayora’s town, where you can go to the Fish Market or see the stores in the Malecón.
• Drop your bags at the hotel and head to the docks to catch a taxi boat to Las Grietas.
• If you manage to be back in town by 2 pm, do the Tour of the Highlands of Santa Cruz. Alternatively, take a taxi that takes you to the  Lava Tunnels, Los Gemelos,  and  Giant Tortoise Ranch.

Advantages of a 7-day Galapagos Itinerary

A 7-day Galapagos itinerary is definitely worth considering if you have the luxury of time. You can choose to relax or add two extra full-day tours to the 5-day itinerary (and stay in only two of the three main islands) or go on a compact 7-day Galapagos itinerary visiting all three main islands.

This way, you won’t miss out on any of the action and can enjoy a bit of everything this amazing archipelago has to offer. The 7-day Galapagos itinerary may be compact, but it provides enough time to truly appreciate the breathtaking scenery, fascinating wildlife, and amazing activities available.

• Grab a taxi to your hotel and unpack.
• Go for lunch in Puerto Ayora’s Malecón. 
• Visit the  Charles Darwin Research Station  to observe the giant Galapagos tortoises and learn something about the conservation efforts of the Galapagos and its history.
• Make your way to the most beautiful beach of Santa Cruz, Tortuga Bay Beach , where you’ll relax for the afternoon.
• Hike back to town after a couple of hours, go for a stroll to relax and do some shopping, go for a craft beer, have dinner, and enjoy the only bustling vibrant town of the archipelago.
•  Take your breakfast and set yourself up to do the Highlands Tour, to see the   Lava Tunnels, Los Gemelos twin craters , and a  Giant Tortoise Ranch .
• Once you’re back in Puerto Ayora, enjoy a delicious lunch at any of Malecón’s restaurants.
• Check-in at your hotel, unpack, and relax.
• Hike Sierra Negra Volcano , enjoy the breathtaking views and learn about the history of the island.
• After the tour, go see what you didn’t see the day before, and visit the Flamingos Lagoon or Concha de Perla Lagoon.
• Be sure to book a flight that leaves at 13h so you have time to do this itinerary.
• Go for a stroll around Puerto Ayora’s Malecón where you can visit the Fish Market and go to some souvenir shops.
• Finally, get a taxi to Itabaca Channel, a taxi boat, and a bus to the airport.

The Ultimate Experience of a 10-day Galapagos Itinerary

Are you looking for the ultimate adventure? Then look no further than this 10-day Galapagos itinerary! It’s the most comprehensive land-based itinerary available in the Galapagos Islands, featuring more full-day tours to visit the best islands, including Bartolome, Española, and Floreana. These islands offer some of the most interesting and unique experiences in the Galapagos. However, if you prefer not to visit Floreana, there are plenty of other exciting activities to consider, like snorkeling in Santa Fé or diving in Gordon Rocks in Santa Cruz, North Seymour, and Mosquera.

This Galapagos itinerary gives you ample time to explore the most beautiful spots, witness incredible wildlife, and take in stunning landscapes. With 10 days, you’ll have plenty of time to see everything the Galapagos has to offer. It’s truly the ideal amount of time to get the best out of your Galapagos experience. While there are always more things to do and see, this 10-day Galapagos itinerary is the most interesting and unforgettable itinerary available in the Galapagos Islands.

• If you’re into diving, go for the  Kicker Rock Dive , one of the most famous in the Galapagos.
• Alternatively, go to  Española Island , one of the most beautiful and unique islands of the archipelago, with endemic species like the pink and green christmas iguana and the waved albatross.
• If you’re on a budget, visit  La Loberia Beach  by taxi, foot, or bicycle, and swim with sea lions or surf.
• In the evening, go to  Playa Mann Beach  or  Punta Carola Beach  for more surfing/relaxing next to downtown.
• Go for lunch in Puerto Ayora’s Malecón, 
• Pass through the Nymphs Lagoon , and make your way to the most beautiful beach of Santa Cruz, Tortuga Bay Beach , where you’ll relax for the afternoon.
• Start the day by visiting the  Charles Darwin Interpretation Center  to see the giant tortoises and learn about the history of the Galapagos and its conservation projects.
• Book a  Highlands Tour  to explore the  Lava Tunnels ,  Los Gemelos Twin Craters , and  Giant Tortoise Ranch .
• Once the tour is over and you’re back in Puerto Ayora, book your tour for the next day, a Bartolome  Island Tour  a  Florena Island Tour , or a  Gordon Rocks Diving Tour  (if you’re into diving) to see Hammerhead sharks and rays.
• Whichever tour you chose head to the tour agency/dive center in the morning to start the adventure.
• On the  Bartolome Island Tour , you’ll go on a sailing boat between Daphne Mayor and Minor Islets until Bartolome Island, the most photographed Island in the Galapagos. Sometimes there are dolphins on the way, following the boat.
• In Floreana , you’ll learn about a peculiar pirate story, an Austrian Baroness and her love trio, and a toothless German Doctor and at in these two tours snorkel on beautiful beaches.
• In Gordon Rocks , you are probably gonna see Hammerhead sharks, eagle and manta rays, and other amazing underwater species.
• All the tours include lunch and at the end of the day around sunset time, you’ll be back in Puerto Ayora.
• Enjoy your last evening in Santa Cruz and get ready for Isabela Island.

Day 7: 

• Wake up early, and take the 7 am speedboat to Isabela Island, which should arrive around 10 am in Puerto Villamil.
• After reserving everything either stay on the gorgeous  Puerto Villamil Beach  for the rest of the day or go to the  Wall of Tears .
• When you’re back in town go for dinner to the hotel to rest for the next day’s volcano hiking.
• Go on a leisurely stroll in Puerto Ayora’s town, where you can go to the Fish Market or see the stores in the Malecón for some souvenirs.
• Get a taxi to Itabaca Channel, a taxi boat, and a bus to the airport.
• Do some souvenir shopping at the airport’s many shops.

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Budget Considerations for a Galapagos Itinerary

The Galapagos Islands are truly an amazing travel destination that you can experience on a budget! For just $500-600, you can discover the archipelago’s incredible highlights with a 4-day Galapagos itinerary, on an island hopping adventure. To keep your costs down, we recommend comparing flights, accommodations, activities, and food options. Additionally, consider staying on the main islands and taking day trips instead of a pricey cruise. 

Luckily, there are plenty of affordable places to stay, such as charming guesthouses and hostels. You can also rest assured that  responsible tourism practices  and safety are a top priority in the Galapagos. If you’re feeling adventurous and interested in last-minute Galapagos cruises or volunteering, those options are available to explore as well. By following these simple tips, you’ll have an unforgettable and budget-friendly trip to the Galapagos!

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Conclusion: What Itinerary is Right For You?

The perfect Galapagos itinerary for you will depend on your interests, the time you have available, and the activities you want to participate in. Whether you choose a 4-day, 5-day, 7-day, or 10-day island-hopping Galapagos itinerary, or a luxurious Galapagos cruise, one thing is for sure – this treasure of a place will leave you in awe.

With abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and exciting adventures, the Galapagos Islands offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this unique and magical destination.

If your kind of Galapagos itinerary is an amazing Cruise-Based Experience, I’ve also written a detailed article to help you choose the best one: BEST GALAPAGOS CRUISE: A GUIDE FOR ALL THE BUDGETS

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San Cristobal Island  – The easternmost island of the Galápagos, the “Isla Bonita”

Santa Cruz Island  – The island with the best tourism infrastructure.

Isabela Island  – The most adventurous and less explored island of the main three.

2 thoughts on “THE BEST GALAPAGOS ITINERARY – FROM 4 TO 10 DAYS”

Thank you for the amazing review, I am about to choose the 10-days, and I hope and guess you recommended the best from all the things you have done and heard about

Hey Ron, nice to hear that, you’re gonna have a blast for sure. That’s the best you can do in 10 days. You can also go with Cruise as an alternative. Have fun!

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I've visited all of the 13 main Galápagos Islands. Here are 10 things every first-time traveler should do.

• As a South American travel specialist, I've traveled to the Galápagos Islands several times.
• Travelers can expect to see species like the giant tortoise and the blue-footed booby. 
• Adventurous visitors can even hike to the rim of one of the world's largest volcanic craters.

I've worked as a South American travel specialist for eight years and have traveled to all 13 of the main Galápagos Islands.

Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the beautiful islands are mainly known for the many rare wildlife species that reside there.

Here are the top things I think every first-timer should do when visiting the Galápagos Islands.

See the islands' most famous residents up close

Many of the birds, reptiles, and mammals found on the Galápagos Islands are endemic, meaning they can't be found anywhere else in the world. Perhaps the most well-known species in the Galápagos is the giant tortoise, which can weigh over 500 pounds. 

In my experience, the best place to see them in the wild is in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, where you can visit a private reserve like El Chato. You can also see the giant tortoise at the Charles Darwin Research Station's breeding facilities on Santa Cruz Island.

However, keep in mind that Galápagos National Park rules mandate that visitors must remain at least 6 feet (or 2 meters) away from all wildlife. If you get too close, the giant tortoises may hiss like enormous cats to warn you to step back. 

Hike to the rim of one of the world's largest volcanic craters

Visitors to Isabela Island can hike to the rim of the Sierra Negra Volcano, which measures 6 miles in diameter, making it one of the largest craters in the world.

The trailhead is a 45-minute drive from the town of Puerto Villamil, and the approximately 12-mile hike typically takes about five to six hours to complete.

Since the volcano is within the national park, all visitors must be accompanied by a licensed naturalist guide. 

See the blue-footed booby's mating dance

In my opinion, nothing is more entertaining and fascinating than experiencing the blue-footed booby's intricate and goofy multi-part mating dance.

These iconic birds can be found on the majority of the islands and their mating dances typically take place during the spring and summer months. 

Experience the underwater world while snorkeling or diving

The ocean surrounding the Galápagos has just as much action as the islands themselves, and snorkeling and diving are the most popular ways to experience it. The protected marine reserve surrounding the islands is home to endemic species like the Galápagos penguin, the only species of penguin found in the northern hemisphere.

 You may also be lucky enough to see the marine iguana, the only known swimming iguana in the world. 

Visit a coffee farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz

The rich volcanic soil of the Galápagos Islands is ideal for growing coffee beans. Because 97% of the islands are within the national park and only a small part can be used for agricultural purposes, coffee production is limited.

However, several coffee farms on Santa Cruz Island offer tours and tastings.

Experience local life in the town of Puerto Ayora

Only four of the 13 major islands in the Galápagos are inhabited by people. Puerto Ayora, located on the island of Santa Cruz, is home to the largest human population.  

I recommend stopping by the Santa Cruz Fish Market in the morning to watch the sea lions and pelicans patiently line up around the fish counter for scraps. In my opinion, this is one of the best ways to have a glimpse of local life and witness how the islands' human inhabitants coexist with the wildlife. 

At night, enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along Charles Darwin Avenue that use fresh, local seafood from the market.

Also check out the Galapagos Islands' first microbrewery, The Santa Cruz Brewery, which opened in 2015. One of its unique brews includes an English porter made with locally-grown coffee. 

While in Puerto Ayora, you can also hike or take a water taxi to Tortuga Bay. This wide, white-sand beach is popular for spotting iguanas and a variety of birdlife. You can also have some fun in the water with activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. 

Learn about the human history of the islands

Although the wildlife tends to be the star of the show, the Galápagos Islands have an interesting human history as well. 

Long before Charles Darwin visited in 1835 , the Galápagos Islands were frequented by pirates and whalers. Post Office Bay on Floreana Island is named after the islands' first post office. The office is a barrel placed by whalers on a small beach in the 1700s, where they would leave messages for other sailors to pick up and deliver. 

If Post Office Bay is included in your itinerary, bring a postcard with you — visitors can still leave their own postcards in the barrel for other travelers to take and hand-deliver. Take a look through the pile to see if there's a postcard you can deliver when you return home.

Sail past Kicker Rock at sunset

Visitors who explore the Galápagos Islands on a cruise may see Kicker Rock on the itinerary. The ships often circumnavigate this massive rock monolith rising about 500 feet above the ocean.

It's also considered one of the top snorkeling spots on the islands. 

Explore the islands' naturally-formed lava tunnels

The highlands of Santa Cruz Island have ancient lava flows under the surface, which created tunnels that visitors can walk through. Galápagos Magic Camp , a tented safari-style lodge, has private lava tunnels where visitors can enjoy a candlelit dinner.

Learn about conservation efforts to protect the islands

In my opinion, the most important thing visitors to the Galápagos Islands can do is learn about the initiatives in place to help protect their fragile, unique ecosystems. 

For example, the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, and similar facilities on San Cristobal and Isabela Islands, raise endangered giant tortoises in breeding centers to eventually be released into the wild. 

IGTOA , the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association, is a non-profit organization made up of travel companies, tour operators, and conservation organizations that contribute to a variety of conservation projects. It's a fantastic resource for those looking for a conservation-minded professional to help plan an unforgettable (and sustainable) Galápagos adventure.

Correction: September 26, 2023   — An earlier version of this story misstated that the blue-footed booby is an endemic species to the Galápagos Islands. Although the islands are home to many, the blue-footed booby can be found along the Pacific coastline.