galapagos islands tourism

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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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

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: 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 $200 for non-Ecuadorian adults and $100 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.

The Latest Conservation News from Galápagos

Revitalizing San Cristóbal: The Remarkable Benefits of Reviving a Critical Water Source

Technology Serving Conservation: The Use of Satellite Animal Trackers in Galápagos

Trail Cameras: Silent Guardians of Galápagos Wildlife

Celebrating International Day of National Parks: Honoring Galápagos National Park

Galapagos Islands Tours & Vacations

Step into an isolated world. See giant tortoises roaming and unforgettable landscapes unfurl before your very eyes. 

Get ready to observe wildlife the way Charles Darwin did hundreds of years ago. Inquisitive sea lions and spiky marine iguanas breach and bask between island and shore. Hammerhead sharks patrol the deep waters while blue-footed boobies and albatross cut through the sky. Nowadays, these Ecuadorian islands host a steady stream of modern-day explorers cruising from isla to isla. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, traverse volcanic landscapes and spot animals you've only ever seen pictures of. To sum it up, there's simply no place on Earth quite like the Galapagos.

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Transport in the galapagos islands.

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.Depending on which trip you're on while in the Galapagos Islands, you may find yourself on:

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Galapagos Islands at a glance

Capital city.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

US dollar (USD)

(GMT-06:00) Galapagos

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Galapagos Islands

Best time to visit.

Simply put, there’s no bad time to visit the Galapagos Islands. Good weather is mostly found year round, as are the animals. This being said, November through to June is the preferred time to visit, with clearer skies, calmer seas and decreased winds. Of these, March and April have less rain, while November and December are the warmest. July to November is the best time for divers as whale sharks can often be spotted at Wolf and Darwin islands.

Learn more about the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands

Culture and customs

Ever since Charles Darwin brought attention to the giant tortoises, sea lions, hammerhead sharks and other spectacular wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, people have been fascinated by this archipelago of volcanic islands. Originally a pirate hideout, people started migrating to the islands from Ecuador after it became part of the country in 1832. Of the 13 major islands and scores of smaller islands and islets that make up the Galapagos, only five of them are inhabited – about 26,000 residents spread over the islands of Isabela, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Baltra and San Cristobal. The wildlife rules the rest of the islands, which are carefully managed to help protect the precious environment.

Geography and environment

Located in the Pacific Ocean about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago of 13 major islands, six smaller islands and more than 100 islets. Some are sparsely vegetated with largely mountainous interiors, whereas others are comparatively lush with white-sand beaches. Many of the islands are in a state of flux, as continual volcanic eruptions cause them to erode and expand.

The largest island, Isabela, makes up half the land area of the Galapagos and is characterized by three active volcanos, a blue lagoon, clear lakes filled with flamingos and beaches where iguanas and sea lions roam. Santa Cruz is the second largest island with giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Galapagos crabs residing in Tortuga Bay. The oldest and most remote island, Espanola (also called Hood), boasts boobies, albatrosses and many species of birds and lizards not found anywhere else in the world. 

Top wildlife to spot

1. Sea Lions

Whether you're loafing about on the beach or snorkeling offshore, you’ll be hard-pressed not to come face-to-face with these frolicsome critters at some stage. Playful, plentiful, and pretty much fearless, you’re supposed to keep a 2-meter distance from these guys at all times - though their insatiable curiosity can make this hard.

2. Marine Iguanas

The only lizards in the world that can live and forage in the ocean, the marine iguana is found solely in the Galapagos. Fierce and ferocious though these Godzilla-like reptiles may appear (Darwin called them ‘Imps of Darkness’), it’s all bluff – they only feed on algae. And with lung capacities permitting up to half an hour of underwater foraging, you’re just as likely find them gorging on the islands’ surrounding seabeds as scampering about the craggy rocks they inhabit.

3. Hammerhead Sharks

Boasting one of the animal kingdom’s most puzzling physiologies, hammerhead sharks are found in abundance off Wolf, Bartolome, Santa Cruz and Darwin islands. Unlike most sharks, they will often merge into schools of over 100 during the day - making for some incredible and surreal photo opportunities. And with no known human fatalities and a wealth of choice natural prey on offer, diving amongst them isn’t as scary or dangerous as one might think.

Darwin finches gave rise to one of the most game-changing theories of all time. By studying the differences between finches from different islands, Darwin hypothesized that the birds’ adaptations to their habitats resulted in their mutation into different species: his Theory of Evolution.

5. Giant Tortoises

No trip to the islands is complete without a visit to its most famous residents. Weighing up to 882 pounds, regularly living for more than 100 years, and able to go for up to 1 year without food, these gentle and slow-moving monsters are an intriguing and humbling spectacle to observe.

6. Sea Turtles

Snorkeling alongside these majestic creatures of the deep (or more accurately, the shallows) is one of those rare, life-affirming moments that makes a trip to the Galapagos immediately worthwhile. Keep your eyes peeled on the beaches for turtle nests too - the Galapagos is a hotbed of activity for these critters. 

7. Blue-Footed Boobies

Despite essentially looking like handsome seagulls with painted toenails, blue-footed boobies, when caught hunting, serve up one of the Galapagos' most thrilling spectacles. Diving from heights of up to 100ft, groups of boobies hit the water at speeds up around 60km per hour. They usually let out a shrill whistle before letting rip, which means you'll usually have warning enough to get your camera out too. How considerate.

8. Flightless Cormorants

Granted, a flightless cormorant spotted on land isn't one of the most invigorating sights you'll see during your time here. But wait until you don your snorkel gear and spot one weaving elegantly through the water - the flightless cormorant will likely become one of your favorite discoveries in the Galapagos Islands for this reason alone.

9. Frigatebird

With its striking wingspan and deeply-forked tail, the magnificent frigate bird is easily one of the most impressive birds in the skies of the Galapagos archipelago. But they don't have such a swell reputation amongst other birds. Whilst they hunt fish on the oceans surface, they also force their winged brethren to regurgitate their food, which then they eat - a process known as kleptoparasitism. Still, they look gorgeous – particularly the males, with their bright-red chin sac.

Healthy and safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travelers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travelers check with their government or national travel advisory organization for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to:  http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

From New Zealand?

Go to:  http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

From Canada?

Go to:  https://travel.gc.ca/

Go to:  http://travel.state.gov/

Go to:  http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/

The World Health Organisation

also provides useful health information:  Go to:  http://www.who.int/en/

Further reading

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Galapagos Islands travel FAQs

Do i need a visa to travel to galapagos islands.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.

Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality.

Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in the Galapagos Islands?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, tips are very much appreciated by service workers and guides.

Leaving a 10% tip is customary in restaurants.

Some automatically add a 10% service charge to your bill, in which case an extra tip isn’t required.

What is the weather like in the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands enjoy almost perfect weather all year with two distinct seasons offering warmer, rainier months and cooler, drier months.

Temperatures rarely dip below 70°F or reach higher than 90°F. You can travel to the islands anytime throughout the year and experience fantastic weather.

Light rainfall is expected from January to May (along with high humidity levels), but it never lasts for long and doesn't often turn into heavier downpours.

What is the internet access like in the Galapagos Islands?

There are reliable internet cafes in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) and Puerto Baquerizo (San Cristobal Island).

Some hotels and restaurants on other islands will have a Wi-Fi connection, but it is best not to rely on it.

Can I use my cell phone in the Galapagos Islands?

There's good cell phone reception on the larger islands, but don’t expect it when at sea. The best local telephone companies are Porta and Movistar.

Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your cell phone.

What are the toilets like in the Galapagos Islands?

Most towns have Western-style flushable toilets, though you will likely encounter squat toilets as well. Regardless, it’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as they are not always provided.

Can I drink the water in the Galapagos Islands?

Tap water isn’t considered safe to drink in the Galapagos Islands.

Avoid drinks with ice and make sure to peel fruit before eating it.

Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in the Galapagos Islands?

No, credit cards are not widely accepted.

There are a handful of shops on Santa Cruz that may accept major credit cards, but it’s preferable to pay in cash.

How many islands make up the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands are made up of 13 larger islands and more than 60 smaller islands and islets. 5 islands are habitable to just over 30,000 people.

These 5 islands are Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Isabela, Isla Santa Cruz, and Isla San Cristobal.

What is ATM access like in Galapagos Island?

The banks in Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo have ATMs.

The Banco del Pacifico in both towns is open from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am to 12.30 pm on Saturdays.

It's best to withdraw your money on the mainland in case these are out of order.

Check each bank's website for up-to-date opening hours.

Are the Galapagos Islands a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

The Galapagos Islands are a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.

Same-sex marriage was legalised in Ecuador in 2008. The country hosts several fiestas where it’s acceptable for men to cross-dress as women.

However, homophobic attitudes do exist among the older generations. It is best to avoid public displays of affection where possible.

For more detailed advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

What to drink in the Galapagos Islands

Quench your thirst after a glorious day spent exploring the Galapagos  by sipping on a glass of canelazo, horchata tea, or freshly made fruit juice.

During your cruise around the islands, it makes sense to try as many traditional Ecuadorian drinks as you can, especially since there are heaps to choose from.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Major Islands

Smaller Islands

Ocean Rocks

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a once-in-a-lifetime destination where you can come face-to-face with fearless wildlife and explore otherworldly volcanic landscapes found nowhere else on earth. This Ecuadorian archipelago is located 600 miles off the coast of South America in the Pacific Ocean. It’s renowned for its unique biodiversity, endemic species like giant tortoises, and its role in inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.

Planning a trip here takes advance preparation, but the chance to snorkel with sea lions, hike atop ancient craters, and observe Darwin’s finches in their natural habitat is an adventure you’ll never forget. Our website is a full guide to help you plan the perfect Galapagos vacation.

A Brief History of the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands were formed by volcanic action over the past 4-5 million years. The oldest existing island, Española, is estimated to be around 3.5 million years old. The Galapagos archipelago consists of 13 major islands, 6 smaller isles, and over 100 rocks and islets.

Though uninhabited, the islands were known by indigenous South Americans and discoverd by the Spanish in the 16th century. The Galapagos get their name from the Spanish word for saddle, due to the shape of tortoise shells. The islands became part of Ecuador in 1832.

Charles Darwin brought scientific attention to the area after visiting in 1835. His observations of the differences between similar species on separate islands led to his groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection. Today, the Galapagos remain over 90% protected national park with conservation efforts focused on maintaining this one-of-a-kind ecosystem.

When to Visit the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos have two distinct seasons:

Dry Season (June to December)

• Cooler, drier weather with average temperatures around 25°C.
• Ocean waters are colder with increased nutrient levels, attracting more wildlife.
• It is the ideal time to visit for the snorkeling and diving enthusiast. The downside is that the sea is not at its calmest.
• High tourist season, so attractions are busier.

Wet Season (January to May)

• Wildlife breeds during this time, so birdwatching and turtle nesting are at their peak.
• Ocean waters are warmer and clearer for swimming and snorkeling.
• Low tourist numbers, but heavier rains and calmer seas.

How To Get To and Around the Galapagos Islands

Getting to this remote archipelago involves flying into one of two small airports, Isla Baltra or Isla San Cristobal. Visitors then explore the islands either on a cruise or via daily boat trips and flights while staying in hotels on the inhabited islands.

Flights to the Galapagos

• Fly into Baltra or San Cristobal from Ecuador’s mainland cities of Guayaquil or Quito.
• Roundtrip flights take around 3 hours from the mainland and cost $400-$500.
• Arrive at least 1 day before any cruise departure to avoid missing the boat!

Getting Around By Cruise

• Multi-day cruises are the most popular and efficient way to experience the Galapagos.
• Cruise itineraries range from 3-7+ nights circumnavigating various islands.
• Most cruise ships depart from either Baltra or San Cristobal. Recommended cruise lines: Celebrity Cruises, Lindblad Expeditions, Ecoventura, Latin Trails, Quasar.

Getting Around Independently

• Stay in hotels on inhabited islands then take day trips by boat or flight.
• Ferry services like the Expedition route islands hop between Santa Cruz, Isabela, Floreana.
• Inter-island flights allow you to see farther flung islands in less time.

Booking your trip with the help from a travel agent

Here are three key ways a travel agent can help plan an amazing Galapagos Islands trip:

• Recommend the optimal time to visit and tailor the perfect itinerary based on your interests, budget and preferences. Their expertise saves you research time.
• Get access to discounted rates and exclusive deals on flights, cruises, hotels, and packages that aren’t publicly listed.
• Handle logistics like permits, bookings, transportation, and provide local tips and recommendations. This allows you to make the most of your limited time on the islands.

Our Travel Guide is complete and will give you a step by step detail to planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands. Yet the Galapagos require intricate planning, and if you do not have a lot of time it is best left to a specialized agent. Their knowledge and connections lead to a dream trip full of once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters and scenery.

Recommended Travel Agents:  Voyagers Travel Company , Peru For Less, Travel Edge, Adventure Smith Explorations.

Where To Stay in the Galapagos Islands

Most visitors stay on a cruise boat, but there are some hotel and eco-lodge options primarily on the four inhabited islands:

The most populous island with the widest variety of hotels, resorts, and budget options close to attractions like the Charles Darwin Research Station. San Cristobal

Charming port town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno with boutique hotels plus lodges in the highlands. Great base for scuba divers.

Laidback island with scattered accommodation choices. Ideal for nature lovers and those who want a quieter experience.

Smallest inhabited island with few hotels. Known for its black sand beaches and rich history as one of the first settled islands.

Eco-friendly Lodges

Offer close wildlife encounters in natural settings on islands like Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Floreana. Recommended options: Pikaia Lodge, Scalesia Lodge, Hotel Ikala.

Top Things To Do in the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos offer endless opportunities to interact with wildlife and take in the archipelago’s striking volcanic formations. Top activities include:

Wildlife Viewing

See native and endemic animals thrive up close, like:

• Giant tortoises
• Blue-footed boobies and red-footed boobies
• Galapagos sea lions
• Marine iguanas
• Waved albatross
• Galapagos penguins
• Darwin’s finches

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Hiking & land tours, relaxing on beaches.

Unwind on white or black sand beaches like Tortuga Bay, Las Bachas, Bartolome, and Gardner Bay.

Seeing Giant Tortoises

Visit reserves like El Chato on Santa Cruz to get up close to these gentle ancient giants.

Visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station

Insider tips for visiting the galapagos.

Follow these expert tips to make the most out of your Galapagos adventure:

• Avoid the crowds by going to lesser-visited islands like Española, Fernandina, Santiago, and Genovesa.
• Pack motion sickness tablets – boat rides between islands can be rough.
• Bring binoculars to better observe wildlife from shore and boats.
• Wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing. Temperatures are hot year-round.
• Don’t touch or feed the wildlife – be respectful of their habitat.
• Try delicious local foods like ceviche, encocado, or churrasco.
• Book cruises well in advance – ships fill up quickly, especially during high season.
• Purchase park passes and transit cards in advance through your travel agent.
• Pre-book day trips from your hotel or just take a cruise (cruises include all shore excursions) to avoid last-minute chaos.

Sample Itineraries for 5-7 Days in the Galapagos

With over a dozen islands to explore, it’s tough choose what to prioritize in just a few days. These sample itineraries will help jumpstart your planning:

5 Day Cruise Itinerary

Day 1:  Arrive, visit highlands of Santa Cruz

Day 2:  Snorkel with sea lions at Champion Islet off Floreana

Day 3:  Española Island – hike Punta Suarez, snorkel at Gardner Bay

Day 4:  Bartolomé Island – Pinnacle Rock, volcanic formations

Day 5:  North Seymour Island to see boobies, marine iguanas

6 Day Cruise Itinerary

Day 1:  Arrive, visit Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz

Day 2:  Snorkel with penguins off Bartolomé Island

Day 3:  Genovesa Island – hike and birdwatching

Day 4:  Santiago Island – Sullivan Bay lava fields

Day 5:  Rábida Island’s red sand beach, coastal walk

Day 6:  Santa Cruz Island highlights – tortoises, Darwin Station

7 Day Land-Based Itinerary

Day 1:  Arrive, explore Santa Cruz Island

Day 2:  Day trip to South Plaza Island

Day 3:  Isabela Island – snorkel Concha y Perla lagoon

Day 4:  Ferry to Floreana, relax on its black sand beach

Day 5:  Day trip to Seymour Island’s wildlife

Day 6:  Santa Cruz highlands, see giant tortoises

Day 7:  Visit Fausto Llerena Breeding Center before departure

With its captivating mix of wildlife, landscapes, and adventure, the Galapagos deliver an incredible experience for nature lovers. Use these tips and itinerary ideas to plan your perfect trip!

The GalapagosIslands.travel website is an interactive travel guide dedicated to help travelers plan their trip to the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador. This website will share pictures, videos and blogs of Galapagos travel experiences from the perspective of visitors, guides and travel companies.

We are guides, photographers, writers, yet our main task is to offer help in planning Galapagos trips through creative story guides.

We have a true love for these islands and are keen to sharing travel planning tips to help you organize your Galapagos vacation.

Amazing photo stories

Get inspiration from some of the worlds best wildlife photographers on our virtual tours of the archipelago.

Fun facts about the Galapagos Islands

Read through our stories and blogs to learn more about the isles of fire, our team of travel writers keep this site updated with first hand knowledge and essential tourism information. We are confident you will be able to plan a better trip once you read through our website.

See what your hotel or yacht looks like before you book.

The Islands are 1 hour behind Ecuador continental time.​

WiFi is usually terrible, want to know were to get a good signal?.​

The Galapagos are home to the only equatorial penguin species.​

Being at the Equator you can visit 365 days a year.​

The islands are not cheap, but we will tell you how to save money.

This travel guide is updated on a regular basis, we try to make sure all information is accurate, yet we cannot be liable for any mistakes.

Travel Information about the Galapagos Islands

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All the tips and information you need for your Galapagos Islands vacation. From a packing list to finding the best time of the year for your Galapagos Islands trip, everything you need to know before embarking on your voyage can be found here.

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What to pack

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There are plenty of activities in the Galapagos for all interests. Visitors can practice adventure sports such as snorkeling and diving, or simply enjoy tranquil strolls through the islands. Read more about the adventure sports the archipelago has to offer.

Guided Excursions

Galapagos Diving

Galapagos Snorkeling

Other adventure sports

A variety of different people are traveling to the Galapagos! New ways to visit the islands include all-budget options for groups , families or couples. Corporate travel includes incentives programs for your company. Or, enjoy certified lesbian/gay-friendly tourist services.

Charter and Groups

Galapagos for Families

Lesbian and Gay

Corporate and Incentives

10 Tips on How to Travel to The Galapagos

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