Best Time to Visit the Galapagos Islands and What to Do
The Galápagos Islands include 13 large islands, though only four have permanent residents: Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, and Floreana. These islands are best known for wildlife found nowhere else—giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas—but they also offer volcanic hikes, snorkeling spots, and historical sites.
Here’s what to do and where to do it.
Hike Across the Rim of Sierra Negra
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Early mornings are best for this trek, both for cooler air and better visibility. The route, situated on Isabela Island, crosses lava fields before skirting the edge of one of the world’s widest volcanic craters. At nearly ten kilometers across, it’s hard to grasp the scale without walking it. Make sure to carry water, wear sun protection, and prepare for little shade along the way.
Snorkel Past the Cliffs of Kicker Rock
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As your boat gets closer to Kicker Rock, two tall cliffs rise sharply from the ocean, separated by a narrow channel. The water between them runs deep and fast, attracting sharks, rays, and large schools of fish. Snorkeling here means swimming in open water with strong currents, so it’s better suited to confident swimmers. Various tours include a guide, gear, and lunch, and prices usually range between $120 and $150 per person.
Go to the Top of Bartolomé Island
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Reaching the top of Bartolomé Island rewards you with an expansive view in the Galápagos. The path winds over volcanic ash and hardened lava and leads to a lookout that reveals twin bays, scattered islets, and the sharp silhouette of Pinnacle Rock rising from the water. That view is a major reason Bartolomé remains a sought-after and regulated destination in the park.
Swim in the Natural Pool at Las Grietas
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The deep, narrow pool at Las Grietas was formed when lava flows cooled and cracked to create a long crevice that eventually filled with a mix of seawater and freshwater. Its name means “the cracks” in Spanish, and locals have used it as a swimming spot for generations. The site sits just outside Puerto Ayora and can be reached on foot in under 30 minutes.
Walk With Tortoises at Rancho Primicias
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Wild tortoises regularly pass through this highland farm, and it’s easy to observe them in their natural environment. The landowners at Rancho Primicias turned their property into a visitor-friendly reserve, where the animals roam freely without fencing. It also features lava tunnels created by past eruptions.
Glide With Sea Lions at Las Tintoreras
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There’s a good chance sea lions will swim right up to you here. Las Tintoreras, a small islet close to Isabela, is a popular stop for wildlife tours. Most excursions include both a short hike and time in the water, where reef sharks and turtles are usually spotted alongside the sea lions.
Watch Marine Iguanas at Tortuga Bay
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Marine iguanas are one of the most recognizable species in the Galápagos. At Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz, they gather in large groups, warming up before diving into the ocean to feed on algae—a behavior found in no other reptile species. Entry is free, but with no shade or services, bring water, sunscreen, and whatever else you’ll need.
Look for Blue-Footed Boobies on North Seymour
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Courtship displays on North Seymour Island start with a high-stepping dance and a deliberate wing lift—classic moves by the island’s blue-footed boobies. Their bright feet and awkward movements draw plenty of attention during breeding season.
Bike to the Wall of Tears on Isabela
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Rental shops in Puerto Villamil make it easy to pick up a bike and head out to the Wall of Tears. The ride takes you along a dirt road that passes beaches, lookout points, and—if you’re lucky—a few tortoises wandering near the trail. The wall itself dates back to a 1940s penal colony, built by prisoners under harsh conditions.
Explore the Lava Terrain Beneath Bartolomé
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Many visitors come to Bartolomé Island specifically for the chance to snorkel a short distance from its volcanic shoreline, especially those interested in marine wildlife and photography. The clear water and unique rock formations attract travelers who want both underwater views and time on land. Peak conditions usually occur between December and May.
Book a Cruise to Reach the Remote Islands
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Cruises are the only way to access certain Galápagos islands. Places like Genovesa, Rábida, and Fernandina aren’t reachable on day tours, and visiting them requires at least a four-day itinerary. Prices vary based on boat size and comfort, but all include guided landings, meals, and transfers.
Stretch Out on Puerto Chino Beach
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Puerto Chino offers a quiet break from the pace of travel and touring. Its soft sand and calm water have made it popular as a peaceful beach on San Cristóbal. The short trail from the road takes about 15 minutes on foot and is easy to follow. Sea lions are nearby, and you can observe them up close as they rest on the shore.
Visit the Fausto Llerena Tortoise Center
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The Fausto Llerena Tortoise Center, which focuses on long-term species recovery, plays a central role in the Galápagos National Park’s conservation work. The center began in the 1960s as part of efforts to save endangered tortoise populations after centuries of habitat loss and overexploitation.
Climb Around El Junco Crater Lake
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Cloud cover moves quickly across this highland site, but on clear days, the lake’s surface reflects the surrounding hills. El Junco is the only permanent freshwater lake in the Galápagos. Conditions get muddy after rainfall, so solid footwear helps.
Surf the Breaks on San Cristóbal or Isabela
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Surfing in the Galápagos is relatively affordable, with board rentals averaging around $20 per day and one-on-one lessons available for an added fee. The best conditions typically fall between December and May, when wave consistency improves and winds are calmer. San Cristóbal’s La Lobería and Tongo Reef are great for beginners, while Isabela’s Punta de Albemarle offers stronger surf.