About Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands remain one of the few places on earth where wildlife shows virtually no fear of humans, allowing face-to-face encounters with giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. Straddling the equator some 600 miles off Ecuador's coast, the archipelago's volcanic landscapes and nutrient-rich currents sustain an ecosystem found nowhere else. Whether explored by liveaboard cruise or island-hopping itinerary, the Galapagos delivers a profound connection to the natural world that inspired Darwin's theory of evolution.
Things to Do
Giant Tortoise Highlands
Walk among free-roaming Galapagos giant tortoises in the misty highlands of Santa Cruz Island, some weighing over 400 pounds.
Snorkeling with Sea Lions
Slip into the water at Kicker Rock or Los Túneles and swim alongside playful sea lions, sea turtles, and reef sharks.
Blue-Footed Booby Colonies
Watch these charismatic seabirds perform their high-stepping mating dance on the rocky shores of North Seymour Island.
Sierra Negra Volcano Hike
Trek to the rim of one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world on Isabela Island, with views stretching across lava fields to the sea.
Kayaking Tintoreras
Paddle through narrow lava channels where white-tip reef sharks rest in the shallows and marine iguanas bask on black rock.
Local Tips
All visitors must pay a $100 park entrance fee in cash upon arrival at the Galapagos airport.
Book a liveaboard cruise to reach remote islands like Fernandina and Genovesa that are inaccessible by day trip.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard since equatorial sun reflects intensely off the water.
Respect the two-meter distance rule from wildlife; guides enforce this strictly and animals often approach you on their own.
Flights to the islands depart from Quito or Guayaquil; booking through a certified tour operator simplifies permits and logistics.
Plan Your Trip
Browse 2 curated trips to Galapagos Islands. Each includes a 7-day itinerary you can customize.
