Things to Do in Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador - Complete Travel Guide

The Galápagos Islands, located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, represent one of the world's most pristine and scientifically significant archipelagos. This UNESCO World Heritage site consists of 19 volcanic islands that inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution and continues to serve as a living laboratory of unique wildlife and ecosystems. The islands are home to species found nowhere else on Earth, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Galápagos penguins, many of which show little fear of humans due to their isolated evolution. Visiting the Galápagos requires careful planning as tourism is strictly regulated to protect the fragile ecosystem. Most visitors explore the islands via organized cruises or day trips from inhabited islands like Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, or Isabela. The experience offers unparalleled wildlife encounters, from snorkeling with sea lions and swimming alongside marine turtles to observing the famous Darwin's finches and witnessing the unique behaviors of endemic species in their natural habitat.

Top Things to Do in Galápagos Islands

Wildlife Cruise

Multi-day cruises are the most comprehensive way to explore the Galápagos, offering access to remote islands and exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities. These expeditions typically include guided nature walks, snorkeling excursions, and zodiac boat rides to observe marine life and seabirds up close. Naturalist guides provide expert commentary on the unique evolutionary adaptations and behaviors of the endemic species.

Booking Tip: Book 6-12 months in advance for best cabin selection and pricing ($2,000-$8,000+ depending on duration and luxury level). Choose operators certified by the Galápagos National Park and look for small group sizes (16-100 passengers) for better wildlife experiences.

Snorkeling and Diving

The underwater world of the Galápagos offers some of the planet's most extraordinary marine encounters, including swimming with sea lions, marine iguanas, green sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish. Advanced divers can explore sites like Darwin and Wolf islands, famous for hammerhead shark schools and whale shark sightings. The crystal-clear waters and fearless marine life create unforgettable aquatic adventures.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost $80-150, while diving expeditions range from $150-300 per day. Book with PADI-certified operators and bring or rent quality equipment. Best visibility occurs during the dry season (June-November).

Giant Tortoise Encounters

Visiting giant tortoise reserves and breeding centers offers intimate encounters with these ancient giants that can live over 150 years and weigh up to 500 pounds. The Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island and the tortoise reserves in the highlands provide opportunities to observe different subspecies and learn about conservation efforts. These gentle giants move slowly through their natural habitat, creating perfect photo opportunities.

Booking Tip: Entry to reserves costs $10-20, while guided tours range from $40-80. Visit early morning or late afternoon when tortoises are most active. El Chato Reserve on Santa Cruz offers the most accessible giant tortoise viewing.

Sea Lion Colony Visits

Galápagos sea lions are among the most playful and interactive wildlife species on the islands, often approaching visitors with curiosity rather than fear. Beach colonies can be observed on most islands, where you'll witness pups nursing, males defending territory, and social interactions. Snorkeling with sea lions provides magical underwater ballet experiences as these agile marine mammals glide gracefully around swimmers.

Booking Tip: Most sea lion encounters are included in day tours ($60-120) or cruise itineraries. Maintain 6-foot distance on land and never touch or feed the animals. La Lobería on San Cristóbal offers excellent land-based viewing opportunities.

Bird Watching Expeditions

The Galápagos hosts an incredible array of endemic and migratory bird species, including the famous blue-footed boobies, magnificent frigatebirds, Darwin's finches, and the world's only tropical penguins. Each island offers different birding opportunities, from the elaborate mating dances of boobies to the prehistoric-looking flightless cormorants. The fearless nature of Galápagos birds allows for exceptional close-up photography and observation.

Booking Tip: Specialized birding tours cost $100-200 per day and are best during breeding season (December-May). Bring binoculars and telephoto lenses. North Seymour Island offers excellent blue-footed booby and frigatebird viewing.

Getting There

The Galápagos Islands are accessible only by air through two airports: Baltra Island (GPS) near Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal Airport (SCY). All flights originate from mainland Ecuador, primarily Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE), with flight times of approximately 1.5-2 hours. Visitors must purchase a Transit Control Card ($20) before departure and pay a National Park entrance fee ($100 for foreign adults) upon arrival. LATAM and Avianca are the primary airlines serving the islands, with daily flights available year-round.

Getting Around

Transportation between islands is primarily by boat, with inter-island flights available on small aircraft for faster transfers. Public speedboats operate between Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, and Isabela islands (2-3 hours, $25-30 each way), while private boats and tour operators offer more flexible scheduling. On individual islands, taxis, buses, and bicycle rentals provide local transportation, though many attractions are accessible by foot. Water taxis ($0.50-1) connect ports to town centers on some islands.

Where to Stay

Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz)
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristóbal)
Puerto Villamil (Isabela)
Cruise Ships
Eco-Lodges (Santa Cruz Highlands)
Budget Hostels (Main Towns)

Food & Dining

Dining in the Galápagos focuses on fresh seafood, with local specialties including lobster, tuna, mahi-mahi, and sea bass prepared in traditional Ecuadorian styles. Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz offers the widest variety of restaurants, from casual cevicherías to upscale establishments serving fusion cuisine. Most inhabited islands feature small family-run restaurants serving set meals (almuerzos) for $8-12, while hotel restaurants and tourist-oriented establishments charge $15-30 for dinner. Cruise passengers enjoy all meals onboard, typically featuring international cuisine with local ingredients and fresh catch of the day.

When to Visit

The Galápagos enjoys a subtropical climate year-round, making it suitable for visits any time, though each season offers distinct advantages. The dry season (June-November) features cooler temperatures, calmer seas, and excellent wildlife viewing, particularly for seabirds and marine life, though occasional drizzle and rougher seas may occur. The warm season (December-May) brings warmer water temperatures ideal for swimming and snorkeling, vibrant green landscapes, and peak breeding season for many species, including giant tortoises and marine iguanas, though afternoon showers and higher humidity are common.

Insider Tips

Pack reef-safe sunscreen as regular sunscreen is prohibited to protect marine ecosystems
Bring a good waterproof camera and extra batteries as charging opportunities may be limited during cruises
Book accommodations and tours well in advance as visitor numbers are strictly limited by the National Park Service

Explore Activities in Galápagos Islands