Galapagos Islands Travel Guide (Ecuador/South America)

Introduction to Galapagos Islands
List of Places to Visit in Galapagos Islands
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Galapagos Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Galapagos Islands
Best Things to Do in Galapagos Islands: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Galapagos Islands
Food and Drink Scene of Galapagos Islands
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Galapagos Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Galapagos Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Galapagos Islands
Best Time to Visit Galapagos Islands
Do’s and Don’ts of Galapagos Islands
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Galapagos Islands
- Health in Galapagos Islands
Getting to Galapagos Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Galapagos Islands
Where to Go Next from Galapagos Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Galapagos Islands

Located in Ecuador, in South America, the Galapagos Islands are a natural wonder and a fascinating destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs. The islands are a natural laboratory for the study of evolution, and they inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection.

The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they offer a unique ecosystem, with a variety of species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The islands are home to giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, penguins, sea lions, and many other animals and plants.

Visitors to the Galapagos Islands can explore the islands by hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, or taking a boat tour. The islands have a lot to offer, and this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your dream trip to the Galapagos Islands.

List of Places to Visit in Galapagos Islands

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Charles Darwin Research Station
Interpretation Center
Wall of Tears
Old Hacienda El Progreso
Puerto Ayora Fish Market
Post Office Bay

Natural Attractions of Galapagos Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bartolome Island
Isabela Island
Santa Cruz Island
San Cristobal Island
Floreana Island
South Plaza Island
North Seymour Island

Hiking/Biking Routes of Galapagos Islands

Sierra Negra Volcano
Tortoise Reserve
El Chato Tortoise Reserve
Cerro Tijeretas
Los Gemelos

Best Things to Do in Galapagos Islands: Activities and Tours

Snorkeling with sea lions
Diving with hammerhead sharks
Kayaking to secluded beaches
Boating to the most remote islands
Watching the giant tortoises in their natural habitat
Stargazing and camping on the beach
Surfing at Tortuga Bay

Week-Long Itinerary for Galapagos Islands

Day	Destination
1	Arrival in Baltra Island, Transfer to Santa Cruz Island, Charles Darwin Research Station, Tortuga Bay
2	Bartolome Island, Pinnacle Rock
3	Santiago Island, Espumilla Beach, Buccaneer Cove
4	Isabela Island, Sierra Negra Volcano, Tintoreras Islet
5	Isabela Island, Tunnels or Las Tintoreras, Concha y Perla, Wall of Tears
6	Fernandina Island, Punta Espinoza, Punta Vicente Roca
7	North Seymour Island, Bachas Beach, Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Galapagos Islands

Must-Try Dishes

Ceviche
Locro de Papas
Encebollado
Churrasco
Fresh seafood

Local Beverages

Canelazo
Guanabana Juice
Beer from the Galapagos Islands

Where to Stay in Galapagos Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel
Pikaia Lodge
Ninfa Hotel
Hotel Fiesta
Casa Natura Galapagos Lodge

What to Buy in Galapagos Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Handicrafts made by the local communities
Artisanal soaps and cosmetics
Coffee, chocolate and honey produced in the islands
Galapagos branded t-shirts, caps and accessories
Marine life artwork

Local Culture and Customs of Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are home to different cultures, including the indigenous communities and immigrants from different countries. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and they value their natural resources. Visitors are urged to respect the fragile ecosystem of the islands, and follow the guidelines of the National Park.

Best Time to Visit Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands can be visited year-round, and each season has its own unique characteristics. The dry season (June to December) is ideal for wildlife sightings, while the wet season (January to May) offers lush vegetation, and the water is warmer for swimming and snorkeling. Keep in mind that the high season is from June to August and from December to January, and the islands may be crowded during these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Galapagos Islands

Do:

Respect the environment and follow the regulations of the National Park
Explore the islands with a licensed guide
Stay on the marked trails and designated areas
Bring a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastic
Try the local cuisine and support the local economy
Leave no trace

Don’t:

Disturb the wildlife or their habitat
Bring any non-native species to the islands
Litter or leave trash on the islands
Take any souvenirs or artifacts from the islands
Smoke in the National Park

Safety and Health

Safety in Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a safe destination, with friendly locals and a low crime rate. However, visitors are advised to take the usual precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended, and being aware of their surroundings. It is also important to follow the guidelines of the National Park, especially when it comes to safety around the wildlife.

Health in Galapagos Islands

Visitors to the Galapagos Islands do not need any specific vaccinations or medications. However, it is recommended to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary prescription medication. The water in the Galapagos Islands is safe to drink, but visitors may prefer bottled water.

Getting to Galapagos Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Galapagos Islands

The main airport serving the Galapagos Islands is the Seymour Airport (GPS) in Baltra Island, which receives international flights from Quito, Guayaquil, and other cities.

Bus Stations Near Galapagos Islands

There are no bus stations on the Galapagos Islands, as visitors can explore the islands by boat or on foot. Local buses are available on the islands for transportation between towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also book a cruise tour to the Galapagos Islands, which includes transportation, accommodation, and activities. There are also private yacht and boat rentals available for those who want to explore the islands independently.

How to Get Around in Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands can be explored on foot, by boat, or by bike. Visitors can rent a bike in Santa Cruz Island or San Cristobal Island. The islands are also connected by ferry and water taxis. For longer distances, there are flights between the main islands.

Where to Go Next from Galapagos Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Quito, Ecuador
Lima, Peru
Machu Picchu, Peru
Andes Mountain Range, Ecuador
Amazon Rainforest, Ecuador
Cuenca, Ecuador

Conclusion

The Galapagos Islands are a unique destination that offers a blend of adventure, nature, and history. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their dream trip to the Galapagos Islands, and explore the islands’ fascinating ecosystem, culture, and activities. Whether it’s snorkeling with sea lions, hiking to a volcano, or visiting a tortoise reserve, the Galapagos Islands have something for everyone.