Dreaming of unique wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches? Head to the Galápagos Islands! Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is world-famous for its incredible biodiversity and role in shaping Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Whether you're snorkeling with sea lions, hiking lava fields, or photographing giant tortoises, the Galápagos offer a once-in-a-lifetime eco-adventure.

Best Time to Visit

The Galápagos Islands are a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are December to May for warm, calm seas and excellent snorkeling, or June to November for cooler weather, active marine life, and birdwatching. Each season offers different wildlife experiences.

How to Get There

  • By Plane: Fly into Baltra Airport (GPS) or San Cristóbal Airport (SCY) from Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador. International travelers must first reach mainland Ecuador.
  • By Cruise: Multi-day cruises are a popular way to explore multiple islands with guided wildlife excursions and onboard accommodations.
  • By Ferry: Inter-island ferries connect Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, and Floreana Islands.

Where to Stay

  • Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel (Santa Cruz) – Eco-friendly beachfront resort with guided tours and fine dining.
  • Hotel La Casa de Marita (Isabela) – Boutique hotel offering comfort and direct beach access in Puerto Villamil.
  • Golden Bay Hotel & Spa (San Cristóbal) – Stylish and modern oceanfront stay in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Top Attractions

Asilo de la Paz

Hike to historic caves and discover unusual island legends on a guided trip.

Asilo de la Paz

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  • What is Asilo de la Paz?
    • Asilo de la Paz is a 450-meter-high hill located on Floreana Island, one of the first islands in the Galapagos to be colonized by Ecuadorians.
  • What attractions can visitors find at Asilo de la Paz?
    • The hill is home to several unique sites, including:
      • A historic pirate cave that was once used as a hideout.
      • A freshwater spring where visitors can bathe.
  • Who manages the surrounding area?
    • The National Park Service oversees the surrounding woodlands and ensures the conservation of the ecosystem.
  • What wildlife can visitors see at Asilo de la Paz?
    • Visitors can hike to the corral and see various species of tortoises that visit the Galapagos Islands.
  • What types of plants grow along the hiking trails?
    • As visitors hike up the hill, they’ll encounter a variety of native flora, including:
      • Plum orchards
      • Tamarind trees
      • Various citrus fruits

Centro de Crianza Arnaldo Tupiza

See giant tortoises and learn about conservation on an educational family visit.

Centro de Crianza Arnaldo Tupiza

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  • What is the Centro de Crianza Arnaldo Tupiza?
  • What can visitors see at the conservatory?
    • Guests can observe tortoises of all sizes and learn about their breeding and conservation efforts.
  • Are guided tours available?
    • Yes! The center has informative staff members who provide guided tours, sharing fun facts about how the tortoises are bred and released back into the wild.
  • Is there a walking path near the conservatory?
    • Yes! A boardwalk connects the conservatory to the town, taking about 45 minutes to walk. Along the way, visitors may see:
      • Iguanas
      • Flamingos
      • Various bird species
  • Is there an entrance fee?
    • No, entry is free, but donations are welcome to support conservation efforts.

Centro de Interpretacion

Explore exhibits and understand island evolution on an affordable cultural stop.

Centro de Interpretacion

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  • What is the Interpretation Center of San Cristobal?
    • An attraction that combines fun and education, the Interpretation Center of San Cristobal aims to introduce visitors to the rich history of the islands.
  • Who established the Interpretation Center?
    • The center was put together by the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation for Development, the Galapagos National Park management, and the Charles Darwin Foundation.
  • What can visitors learn at the center?
    • Visitors exploring the center will learn many fascinating pieces of information about the island’s history.
  • What is featured in the Natural History Room?
    • The Natural History Room presents an in-depth exhibit of the volcanic origin of the islands.
  • Are there other exhibits?
    • Yes, there are other rooms dedicated to the island’s colonization, flora and fauna species, and conservation of the land.

Centro de Interpretacion, Avenida Alsacio Northia, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Ecuador

Romantic Activities and Attractions:

Dragon Hill

Climb rocky trails and spot iguanas during a scenic spring hike.

Dragon Hill

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  • What is Dragon Hill?
    • Nature lovers will enjoy spending a day exploring Cerro Dragon, or Dragon Hill, on Santa Cruz Island. The stunning location gets its name from a time when it was the only place in Santa Cruz where you could find land iguanas or “dragons.”
  • What animals can visitors see at Dragon Hill?
    • Visitors are sure to come across green turtles, rays, Galapagos mockingbirds, and a number of other migratory shorebirds along the rocky beach.
  • What plant life is Dragon Hill known for?
    • Dragon Hill is known for its Galapagos cotton and a variety of candelabra cactus.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Dragon Hill?
    • The area is perfect for visitors looking to enjoy beachcombing, sunbathing, hiking, or snorkeling.

Ecuagringo Fishing

Reel in big catches and enjoy an exciting deep-sea adventure.

Ecuagringo Fishing

© Ecuagringo Fishing

  • What is Ecuagringo Fishing?
    • Ecuagringo Fishing is a commercial fishing company that has been supporting local fishermen in the Galapagos Islands for over twenty years.
  • What makes Ecuagringo Fishing unique?
    • The company consists of a passionate staff who love the outdoors and the rush of the sport. They are highly skilled and can navigate the waters effortlessly.
  • Where does Ecuagringo Fishing operate?
    • Ecuagringo offers island fishing tours in San Cristobal and Santa Cruz.
  • What types of fishing tours are available?
    • Visitors can choose from Marlin and big game fishing, inshore fishing, and fly fishing.
  • What additional experiences does Ecuagringo offer?
    • The team ensures a memorable fishing trip that also provides opportunities to take stunning wildlife pictures.

100 Aquarium Whrf, Charleston, SC 29401, Phone: 59-39-89-26-83-00

Galapagos Alternative

Discover tailored tours and explore the islands with easy, personalized service.

Galapagos Alternative

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  • What is Galapagos Alternative?
    • Galapagos Alternative offers visitors from all over the world an opportunity to explore the Galapagos Islands from a local perspective.
  • How are the itineraries planned?
    • There are itineraries created based on interests, time, and locations. Visitors can also design a completely personalized itinerary based on their specific needs.
  • What cultural experiences are included?
    • Guests will experience the rich culture of the islands while staying at local hotels and dining at some of the best local restaurants.
  • What are some popular attractions on the tour?
    • Some of the most popular attractions include Santa Fe Island, the Sierra Negra Volcano tour, the Lava Tunnels tour, and Punta Carola Beach.

100 Aquarium Whrf, Charleston, SC 29401, Phone: +59-39-94-65-50-18

Galapagos Natural Life

Book wildlife excursions and enjoy affordable trips packed with stunning sights.

Galapagos Natural Life

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  • What is Galapagos Natural Life?
    • Galapagos Natural Life is a direct tour operator that specializes in finding the lowest priced last-minute deals on cruises touring the Galapagos Islands.
  • How long has the company been operating?
    • The company has been around for over seven years and has built a reputation for offering great deals on Galapagos tours.
  • What kind of discounts does Galapagos Natural Life offer?
    • They sometimes provide discounts of up to 50% on last-minute cruise bookings.
  • Are there any additional promotions?
    • Yes, promotions include a free night's stay at the company’s hostel in Quito or a complimentary hotel/airport transfer.
  • Does the company offer land-based tours?
    • Yes, they offer land-based tours that island hop and stop at all the major attractions along the way.

Joaquin Pinto E8-64 y 6 de Diciembre, Phone: +5-93-22-52-05-75

Galapagos Underwater

Dive vibrant reefs and see marine life up close on a romantic adventure.

Galapagos Underwater

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  • What is Galapagos Underwater?
    • Galapagos Underwater offers diving courses and tours that allow visitors to explore the underwater wonders of the Galapagos Islands.
  • Why is underwater exploration important?
    • With 70% of the planet covered by water, diving offers a chance to see a side of the islands that can’t be experienced from land.
  • Who leads the diving tours?
    • Experienced and trained guides focus on safety while ensuring visitors have a fun and memorable experience.
  • What marine life can be seen?
    • Visitors can snorkel or dive to see hammerheads, Galapagos sharks, sea lions, and turtles.
  • What makes the diving tours special?
    • The top-quality diving tours ensure that visitors truly explore one of the world’s most diverse marine hotspots.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal, Galapagos, Ecuador, Phone: 59-32-52-18-58

Ecoventura

Cruise in comfort and explore top attractions on an unforgettable family voyage.

Ecoventura

© Ecoventura

  • What is Ecoventura?
    • Ecoventura is a family-owned expedition cruise company that shares its love for the Galapagos Islands with visitors, providing an authentic experience.
  • What makes Ecoventura's cruises unique?
    • They work with small groups, ensuring an unforgettable and safe voyage while minimizing their impact on the fragile environment.
  • What vessels does Ecoventura operate?
    • Expeditions take place on one of their two first-class 20-passenger yachts, a 16-passenger upscale dive live-aboard, and the premium luxury vessel MV Origin.
  • What activities are included in Ecoventura’s expeditions?
    • Their adventures include hiking through volcanic formations, observing nesting seabirds, watching sea lions on a secluded beach, snorkeling with penguins, swimming with sharks, kayaking in small romantic coves, and zodiac rides to explore the shoreline and search for wildlife.
  • What is Ecoventura's commitment to sustainability?
    • Ecoventura is a world leader in sustainable tourism and was the first company to be awarded the Smart Voyager certification.

Worldwide Sales & Reservation office: Galapagos Network, 5805 Blue Lagoon Drive, Suite 160, Miami FL 33126, Phone: 305-262-6264; Toll-free: +1 800-633-7972

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz) – Learn about conservation efforts and see giant tortoises up close.
  • Los Tuneles (Isabela) – Snorkel through lava tunnels and swim with sea turtles, sharks, and rays.
  • Kicker Rock (San Cristóbal) – Dive or snorkel around this dramatic rock formation, home to sharks, rays, and seabirds.
  • Sierra Negra Volcano (Isabela) – Hike one of the world’s largest volcanic craters and enjoy panoramic views.
  • Gardner Bay (Española Island) – White-sand beach perfect for spotting sea lions and snorkeling with colorful fish.

Where to Eat

  • Almar Seafood & Grill (San Cristóbal) – Fresh local seafood and beautiful ocean views in a relaxed setting.
  • Bahía Mar Restaurant (Santa Cruz) – Elegant dining with Ecuadorian and international dishes right on the water.
  • Booby Trap (Isabela) – Casual, friendly spot serving burgers, seafood, and cocktails steps from the beach.

If you are interested in local events:

  • San Cristóbal Festival (July–August) – Celebrate the patron saint of the island with parades, concerts, and local food.
  • Founding of Puerto Ayora (February) – Community celebrations with music, dancing, and cultural events on Santa Cruz.
  • Sea Lion Season (Year-round) – Especially active in the warm season (Jan–Mar), when sea lion pups are born and very playful.

If you are looking for unique day trips within the Galápagos Islands:

  • North Seymour Island – Spot blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and marine iguanas on this guided day tour from Santa Cruz.
  • Santa Fe Island – Snorkel with sea lions and rays, and see land iguanas in a pristine setting.
  • Isabela Island Volcano Hike – Day hike to Sierra Negra or Chico Volcano for otherworldly landscapes.
  • Tintoreras Islets (Isabela) – Paddle or snorkel among white-tip reef sharks and penguins in crystal-clear waters.
  • Las Grietas (Santa Cruz) – Swim in a crystal-clear canyon between volcanic cliffs just outside Puerto Ayora.

FAQ:

  • What are the Galapagos Islands?
    • The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands that belong to Ecuador. They are famous for their rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems.
  • Why are the Galapagos Islands significant?
    • The islands are known for their extensive collection of flora and fauna. Many of the species found here are unique to the region and played a key role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy in the Galapagos Islands?
    • Popular activities include:
      • Exploring volcanoes to witness the islands’ geological history.
      • Birdwatching to spot rare species such as blue-footed boobies and Galapagos penguins.
      • Enjoying water sports like:
        • Surfing
        • Snorkeling
        • Scuba diving to explore marine life.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Warm Season (December-May) – Hot and humid with calm seas, perfect for snorkeling and wildlife spotting. Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel – A beachfront eco-hotel in Puerto Ayora. Snorkel at Devil’s Crown – Experience one of the best underwater sites in the Galápagos.
Cool Season (June-November) – Cooler temperatures and nutrient-rich waters, ideal for diving. Galápagos Safari Camp – A luxury tented lodge offering an immersive nature experience. Take a guided dive at Darwin & Wolf Islands – Spot hammerhead sharks and marine life.
Year-Round Activities – Unique wildlife encounters and natural beauty make it a great destination anytime. Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel – A stylish stay on Isabela Island. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station – Learn about conservation efforts and see giant tortoises.
Best for Fewer Crowds – September and October tend to have fewer tourists. Hotel Solymar – A comfortable oceanfront hotel in Santa Cruz. Take a cruise – Explore multiple islands and remote wildlife habitats.

Plan Your Trip


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