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As a
South American travel
Specialist, I have visited the Galápagos Islands multiple times.
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Visitors can anticipate spotting creatures such as the giant tortoise and the blue-footed booby.
- Eager explorers have the opportunity to trek all the way up to the edge of what is considered one of the planet’s biggest volcanic calderas.
I have experience working in South America.
travel specialist
For eight years and have visited all 13 of the primary Galápagos Islands.
Situated 600 miles away from the coastline
Ecuador
, these stunning islands are primarily renowned for their numerous endangered wildlife species that inhabit them.
Here are the main points I believe each person should consider:
first-time traveler
what one should do when exploring the Galápatos Islands.
Observe the islands’ most renowned inhabitants from nearby.
A large number of birds, reptiles, and mammals inhabiting the Galápagos Islands are exclusive to this region, making them impossible to find elsewhere globally. Among these, the most famous species might very well be the gigantic tortoise, capable of reaching weights exceeding 500 pounds.
Based on my experiences, the optimal location to observe these creatures in their natural habitat is within the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, particularly in a private sanctuary such as El Chato. Alternatively, one can view giant tortoises at the breeding centers operated by the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island.
Keep in mind though that according to the regulations of the Galápagos National Park, tourists have to stay at least 6 feet (or 2 metres) away from all wildlife. Should you come too near, the massive tortoises might emit a hissing sound similar to big cats warning you to retreat.
Head to the edge of one of the planet’s biggest volcanic calderas via a hike.
People visiting Isabela Island have the opportunity to trek up to the edge of the Sierra Negra Volcano, home to one of the biggest calderas globally.
The starting point for the trek is a 45-minute drive away from Puerto Villamil town, and the roughly 12-mile journey usually takes around five to six hours to finish.
As the volcano lies within the
national park
All guests must have a certified naturalist guide with them.
Observe the blue-footed booby’s courtship dance.
I believe that nothing compares to the entertainment and fascination of witnessing the complex and comical multipart mating ritual of the blue-footed booby.
These recognizable birds inhabit most of the islands, with their mating rituals generally occurring from spring through summer.
Explore the aquatic realm whilst snorkeling or scuba diving.
The waters around the Galápagos Islands are just as dynamic as the land itself, with snorkeling and diving being the top activities for exploration. Encircling these islands lies a preserved marine sanctuary teeming with native creatures such as the Galápagos penguin, which stands out as the sole type of penguin thriving north of the equator.
You might even have the good fortune to spot the marine iguana, the sole known species of iguana capable of swimming.
Explore a coffee plantation in the highlands of Santa Cruz.
The fertile volcanic earth of the Galápagos Islands suits cultivation perfectly.
coffee beans
Due to 97% of the islands being protected within the national park and just a minimal area available for agriculture, coffee cultivation is restricted.
Nevertheless, multiple coffee plantations on Santa Cruz Island provide guided tours and tasting sessions.
Explore everyday life in the town of Puerto Ayora.
Out of the 13 main islands in the Galápagos, only four have residents. The town of Puerto Ayora, found on Santa Cruz Island, hosts the biggest community of people.
I suggest visiting the Santa Cruz Fish Market early in the day to observe the sea lions and pelicans queuing neatly at the fish counter for leftovers. I believe this is an excellent way to get a peek into everyday island living and see how people here share their space with wild animals.
In the evening, savor your meal at any of the numerous eateries lining Charles Darwin Avenue that serve freshly caught, locally sourced seafood from the nearby market.
Discover the human story of these islands.
Even though the wildlife often steals the spotlight, the Galápagos Islands also boast an intriguing human history.
Well before Charles Darwin set foot here in 1835, the Galápagos Islands had been a stopover for both pirates and whalers. Post Office Bay located on Floreana Island owes its name to the archipelago’s inaugural postal station. This makeshift post office consists of a barrel installed by whaling crews during the 1700s, used as a drop-off point for letters so that passing mariners could collect them and ensure their delivery.
If you plan to visit Post Office Bay, make sure to carry a postcard along—tourists can place their own messages in the barrel for others to pick up and personally deliver later. Flip through the stack to find a card you might be able to drop off once you get back home.
Cruise by Kicker Rock during sunset
People who visit the Galápagos Islands via a cruise might find Kicker Rock included in their schedule. These vessels frequently sail around this towering rocky formation, which rises approximately 500 feet out of the sea.
It’s likewise seen as one of the
top snorkeling spots
on the islands.
Discover initiatives aimed at safeguarding the islands’ natural environment.
I believe the key action for visitors to the Galápagos Islands is to educate themselves about the conservation efforts designed to safeguard these delicate and distinctive environments.
For instance, the Charles Darwin Research Station located on Santa Cruz Island, along with comparable facilities on San Cristobal and Isabela Islands, breeds endangered giant tortoises in captivity before releasing them back into their natural habitats.
IGTOA, the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association, is a nonprofit group comprising travel agencies, tour organizers, and environmental groups involved in numerous preservation initiatives. This association serves as an excellent source for individuals seeking eco-conscious professionals who can assist in arranging a memorable (and sustainable) expedition to the Galápagos Islands.
Correction: September 26, 2023
— A previous edition of this article incorrectly stated that the blue-footed booby is native only to the Galápagos Islands. While these islands host numerous such birds, the blue-footed booby also inhabits the Pacific coastlines.
The tale initially appeared on September 23, 2023, with the latest update coming on January 24, 2025.
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