Snorkel with the sea lions or lie in the sun with the iguanas, it’s up to you. The Galapagos Islands are a haven for some of the world’s most interesting and unique creatures. The isolation of these islands has created a wildlife playground where birds, sea and land animals are more curious and approachable than anywhere else on earth. From the stark, lava fields of Rabida to the rich vegetation and white sand beaches of Santa Cruz – the islands are yours to explore…

Galapagos Fast Facts

Languages Spoken
The official language spoken in The Galápagos Islands is Spanish.

Currency
Name: United States Dollar
$20 is approx £15.49

Time Zone
Time Zone: Galápagos Time is (UTC-06:00)

When to Visit

Temperatures in the Galápagos vary very little, with highs of 31°C & lows of just 26°C. The more wet and humid months are December – April, however during this time you can catch the Green Sea Turtles laying their eggs and the penguins migrating between islands. From April onwards, it is far less humid and much drier. Catch the penguins courting in September & ogle at the Whale Sharks in November.

The Best Islands in the Galápagos

Santa Cruz Island
The economic centre of the Galápagos and the most populated island of the archipelago. The Charles Darwin Research Station is a 10 minute walk from Puerto Ayora. Visit the adult and baby Galápagos Tortoises, which are raised at the station. Check out Turtle Bay Beach, a 45 minute walk from Puerto Ayora along a lovely trail. The pristine white sand beach is absolutely stunning!

Isabela
Isabela is the largest and most volcanically active island in the archipelago. Mellow out in Puerto Villamil, hang out in a hammock and watch the boobies fly by. Or hike to the tucked-away lagoon that is home to hundreds of

Floreana Island
Site of the famous ‘post office barrel’, which was placed there by whalers in the 18th century and is still in use today. Visit Pt. Cormorant, which has a jade green volcanic beach, a lagoon and occasional shore birds and flamingos. Snorkel at Devil’s Crown, a submerged volcanic cone.

San Cristobal
The easternmost island and one of the oldest. The principal town is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, which is the capital of the Galápagos. Keep an eye out for bathing sea lions and the land iguanas brought back from the brink of extinction that the island is known for!

Adventures in the Galápagos

For many people, the Galápagos will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but you don’t need to rush around all the islands – the wildlife is so extensive that you can gain a full appreciation simply by visiting two or three. Choose a land-based tour, where you stay on the main islands and meet the locals, explore the towns and rural hinterlands.

Galápagos Sailing Tours

A typical day of Galápagos sailing will see you snorkelling with sea lions, soaking up the sun next to a marine iguana and watching tropical penguins play around in the water. As a national park (and #1 on the UNESCO Heritage list), many parts are only accessible by boat and in the company of a guide. Hence the popularity of guided cruises!

There are an amazing range of Galápagos sailing holidays, suitable for all budgets.

  • There are several sailing trips and vessels to ensure you have a quality experience. From affordable boats to the more comfortable and luxurious options. Choose an option right for you.
  • The maximum group size on most vessels is 16. Our small group philosophy ensures you get the most out of the expertise of the fully-trained naturalist guide on board.
  • An expert naturalist guide is employed on each boat and hosts nightly seminars to discuss the local wildlife. They have a wealth of knowledge of all things Galápagos.
  • All of your meals on board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) are included, which will be freshly-prepared Ecuadorian and international cuisine such as seafood, salads, soups, desserts and more!
  • Some Galapagos sailing trips include return flights between Quito and the islands so you don’t need to think about that extra cost. Happy days!
  • Much of the sailing takes part at night to allow two on-shore excursions a day, typically spending up to four hours at each landing stop so you can really maximise your exploration time.

Galapagos Travel Costs

Food and Drink
You cannot visit The Galápagos Islands and not make the most of the fresh fish on offer. Tuck into a lobster dinner for just $10 (approx £7.73), chicken for $6 (approx £4.64) and grilled fish for $8 (approx £6.19). The typical cost of the local beer, Pilesner is $3 (approx £2.32). All beer has to pe imported from Ecuador so expect to pay a little more than you would on the mainland.

Taxi Ride
There is a fixed tariff on the islands, so all taxis are $1 per ride within the towns. They all white pick up trucks, so there is plenty of room for your backpack or surfboard.

Water Taxis
To reach secluded beaches and the more remote parts of the islands, you can pay $3 (approx £2.32) per person for a water taxi.

Hostels
The key to a cheap stay in the Galápagos is to book ahead of time, to make sure you get a good room if you are looking to save the pennies. A room in a decent hostel or homestay costs around $25 (approx £19.33).

Hotels
You can stay in a range of hotels in The Galápagos Islands from rustic to high end – you can get a midrange hotel room from $50 (approx £38.67).

Galapagos Tour Reviews

Have you travelled to the Galapagos? Get in touch with us to share your experience.