When to Visit the Galapagos Islands
When is the best time to go to the Galapagos? There is no best time really. Any time is great to visit, but it's helpful to know the basics of Galapagos' climate and other variables such as wildlife activities and tourist high and low seasons in order to pick just the right time of year that will feature the things you wish to see and do.
What Animals Are Most Commonly Seen in the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are home to hundreds of wildlife species. Which ones are most commonly seen? Read on to find out!
Visiting the Galapagos Islands on a Budget
Although the Galapagos Islands host some of the most luxurious cruises and nature lodges, it's also a great destination for those looking to explore the best nature has to offer on a budget. The best way to balance your budget is to plan ahead. A little bit of forward thinking and investigation before your trip can save you a bunch of money.
Villa Laguna Hostel
Hotel Villa Laguna in Santa Cruz is both comfortable and spacious offering their guests accommodation and a handful of Galapagos Island hotel based tours and day cruises in the heart of Puerto Ayora.
Touring the Galapagos on an 8-day, 7-night Cruise
Most experts believe that an 8-day cruise is the best balance of time on the islands for the money. While shorter cruises are extremely limited in what you get to see, many people feel that two-week cruises are expensive, long, and even exhausting.
Tour Package with Finch Bay Eco Hotel
Located on the outskirts Puerto Ayora, Finch Bay is the only beachside hotel on Santa Cruz Island that offers beach front access with phenomenal ocean view rooms. Families are welcome with children of all ages.
Top Snorkeling Spots in the Galapagos Islands
This list features the best spots to snorkel in the Galapagos Islands and what you can anticipate finding in each one. For those lucky enough to visit all corners of the Galapagos, you will see completely different marine ecosystems around each island.
Top Galapagos Resorts, Lodges & All-Inclusive Vacations
The Galapagos Islands are home to ecologically conscious lodges and resorts that combine natural adventures and relaxing beachside.
Top dive spots in the Galapagos Islands and tips on how to visit them
If you are an experienced diver looking for a bold new adventure into some of the most vibrant marine utopias nature has to offer, then look no further than the Galapagos Islands. While snorkeling allows casual vacationers the opportunity to witness exciting and colorful scenes around popular coral reefs, SCUBA diving gives more seasoned divers a chance to get up close and personal with some of the true underwater wonders of the Galapagos’ 30+ dive sites.
The Most Complete Galapagos Experience
The 15-day cruise option allows you to see the whole Galapagos archipelago and the only one that will fully acquaint you with each of its regions. The Galapagos, though a small geographic region, have very distinct zones in each corner of the Islands.
The Galapagos Marine Sanctuary
As of March 21, 2016, a new marine sanctuary has been established in the Galapagos Islands. In response to high levels of legal and illegal fishing operations and other resource exploitation, Ecuadorian president Rafael Correa signed an executive order to designate the area surrounding Wolf and Darwin Islands as a protected area.
The Best Galapagos Liveaboards
There’s no doubt that the Galapagos Islands are one of the most enchanting places for a diver to witness the rainbow of marine life that this unique, volcanically formed ecosystem supports. And the absolute best way to experience diving is by reserving your spot on one of the exclusive liveaboard diving cruise.
Solymar Hotel
Hotel Solymar is where you can view both the sun and the sea at the same time while residing in one of the 17 different oceanside rooms.
Sea Kayaking in the Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands has some of the most fascinating endemic and native marine life in the ocean, and sea kayaking in the Galapagos can be a great way to witness the pelagic life up close.
Scalesia Lodge
A premium active program, that offers plentiful opportunities for incredibly close encounters with Galapagos wildlife.
Santiago Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Santa Cruz Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
San Vicente Hotel
Hotel San Vicente provides all the comforts and facilities necessary to offer our guests an excellent base from which to see Isabela, without any worries.
San Cristobal Island Travel Guide
Welcome to the oldest and second most populated island of the Galapagos, San Cristobal. This island is the furthest island from the volcanic hotspot that has produced the Galapagos Islands, indicating its relatively old geological age. It is also home to an extremely unique natural environment, unlike any other in the Galapagos Islands.
San Cristobal Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Royal Palm Hotel
The Royal Palm is a secluded five-star hotel located in the highlands of Santa Cruz, about 20 minutes from Puerto Ayora.
Responsible travel in the Galapagos Islands
Be sure you have the most positive impact possible when visiting the pristine Galapagos Islands and Galapagos National Park. The best way to practice responsible travel in the Galapagos is by planning your trip with an eco-conscious tour provider.
Rabida Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Puerto Villamil Travel Guide
The Galapagos Islands make for an exciting vacation destination for just about everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an active nature exploration, or a fun family trip. And the town of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island, is a staple visit for most Galapagos cruises and a great place to stay on a land-based or island-hopping tour.
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal
Discover what to do and see on San Cristobal Island along with travel tips for visiting the Galapagos Islands
Puerto Ayora Travel Guide
Puerto Ayora is on the island of Santa Cruz, the most central island in the Galapagos both geographically and culturally. Puerto Ayora is the biggest town in the Galapagos Islands and has everything you could hope for – a wide variety of stores for any last-minute purchases, excellent restaurants, bars, clubs, and even karaoke.
Planning your Galapagos tour from Guayaquil
If the Galapagos Islands are your destination, then you must first pass through either Quito or Guayaquil on Ecuador's mainland. It's always a good idea to arrive a day or two before your flight to Galapagos just to be safe, so take that time to explore mainland Ecuador before your Galapagos adventure.
Planning Galapagos Tours and Cruises from Quito
With all of the excitement and enthusiasm for your Galapagos vacation, don’t forget that mainland Ecuador is worth planning a couple of days of exploring. Quito is the country’s capital and second-largest city, right behind Guayaquil.
Planning a Diving Trip to the Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands are one of the world's premier SCUBA diving destinations. Here are tips on how to plan a diving trip to the Galapagos.
Pimampiro Hostel
Pimampiro Hostel is a great Galapagos hotel for you if you are looking for first-class accommodations.
Pikaia Luxury Lodge
Pikaia lodge is a new concept in luxury and design in Galapagos. Settled on top of two extinct volcanic craters, the lodge boasts 31 hectares of giant tortoise reserve.
Photography Trips in the Galapagos Islands
Capturing your Galapagos experience in stunning pictures is a great way to remember your Galapagos journey and share it with friends and family back home. But if you’re a rookie photographer who’s never really had much experience, you’ll want to practice before you leave so that you’re ready when your Galapagos adventure begins!
New Galapagos tortoise species on Santa Cruz Island
Researchers have confirmed the discovery of a new species of giant Galapagos tortoise. An isolated group of tortoises were previously thought to belong to other species on the same island.
New Galapagos Tortoise Species Discovered
Researchers have confirmed a new species of giant Galapagos tortoise that was previously believed to be part of a second species on Santa Cruz island in the Galapagos.
Miconia Hotel
Miconia Hotel is Smart Voyager certified, offering you an environmentally conscious stay on San Cristobal at an affordable low price.
Luxury Hotels in the Galapagos Islands
Those considering staying in the Galapagos either before or after their cruise will be rewarded with a splendid selection of world class ecologically-focused luxury hotels and resorts to choose from.
Island Hopping in the Galapagos
Island hopping in the Galapagos Islands, also known as land-based tours, is the only other way to see the islands if you are not on a cruise. Cruises used to be the only way to visit the archipelago, but now travelers can base their excursions from a hotel on one of the four main islands to which they will return every night.
Isabela Island Galapagos
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Information On Each Important Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Information On Each Important Galapagos Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Ikala Hotel
Ikala Hotel, the newest 4+ star high-quality boutique hotel in the Galapagos Islands, is located in the small town of Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz Island.
Iguana Crossing Hotel
This Hotel is one of the newest and most modern hotels you can find on Isabela Island.
How to find the perfect Galapagos vacation for your personal needs
There's no one “best” way to visit the Galapagos Islands, but there are plenty of tricks for building the ideal Galapagos trip for your needs and interests. There are also strategies you can use to get a good deal.
How to Find the Best Deal on a Galapagos Cruise
With about 80 cruise boats simultaneously sailing the Galapagos, it can be overwhelming finding the best boat for your needs at the best price possible. These tips by Columbus Travel should help you choosing a cruise and looking for the best deal.
How to Charter a Luxury Yacht in Galapagos
Are you planning a Galapagos trip with a big group? Whether it’s a family reunion, a business retreat or small group project, or a special occasion like an anniversary, chartering a cruise can be a great way to share these moments with family, friends, and colleagues.
How the El Niño phenomenon affects the Galapagos Islands
On the fragile Galapagos ecosystems El Niño occurrence is devastating. For example, the most recent strong events of 1982-83 and 1997-98 were followed by decimation of 77% and 65% of the penguin population, respectively.
How Much Does a Galapagos Cruise Cost?
There’s no such thing as a “bad” Galapagos cruise, but it’s also definitely true that the more you pay, the more amazing your experience will be, in terms of comfort, experience, food, guides, and trip length. All cruises are all-inclusive, meaning that your ticket price includes meals onboard, lodging, and any transportation specifically listed in the itinerary
Hotel Silberstein
Located in the center of Puerto Ayora, Hotel Silberstein is operated by a German family that offers not only a place to stay, but a well organized information center for tourists looking for day trips and Galapagos land tours as well.
Golden Bay Hotel
A beautiful and new concept in lodging on San Cristobal, Golden Bay blends modern construction techniques in harmony with its surrounding.
Geology of the Islands of Fire: Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands were born of fire - the same fire that melts the earth’s crust and has created a unique natural environment that could not exist without it. While many people visit the Galapagos Islands each year for the stunning wildlife, others feel that the geology itself is the most fascinating characteristic in the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Transit Card and National Park Fees
When planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, there are two important fees that you must be prepared for: the Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee ($100/ person) and the Transit Control Card ($20/ person). Both must be paid in cash, and without them, you will be denied entry into the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Suites
Galapagos Suites offers personalized first-class service. We strive to provide a unique experience at our hotel as well as on the surrounding islands.
Galapagos Safari Camp
Looking for an island escape that suits your adventurous ways? Galapagos Safari Camp provides you and your family a unique option of safari camping, but on the luxurious side.
Galapagos Penguins impacted by El Niño
With the 2015 El Niño in full force, the Galapagos Penguin fights to survive a major disruption in its food source. Natural selection rears its devistating impact on one of the Galapagos' most popular species.
Galapagos Naturalist Explorer
The Galapagos Naturalist Explorer is the utmost wildlife and natural history program. Follow Darwin's footsteps to encounter incredibly friendly wildlife, ...
Galapagos Multisport Adventure Tour
Discover the Galapagos Archipelago through an active adventure that will deliver the most extraordinary of this world-class naturalist haven.
Galapagos Multiactive Adventure
A premium active program, that offers plentiful opportunities for incredibly close encounters with Galapagos wildlife.
Galapagos Marine Iguanas
Perhaps no better case can be made for adaptation than the marine iguana! Just about everything about this ancient lizard points to evolution at its finest.
Galapagos Local Flights, Airports & Ground Transportation
Learn all about transportation on and between the Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Land Tour vs Cruise
No matter how you explore the Galapagos Islands - by land or by sea - you are guaranteed an excellent vacation, full of exciting activities, natural exploration, and the flora & fauna that have earned the Galapagos its identity as a natural laboratory of evolution.
Galapagos Island Hopping on a Budget
Isabela, being the largest of the Galapagos Islands, offers their visitants the opportunity to enjoy the most marvelous Galapagos landscapes and active volcanoes in Galapagos like Sierra Negra Volcano.
Galapagos in March
March is a great time to visit the Galapagos if you like sunny days and warmer waters. One of the most exciting events is the first group of Waved Albatrosses arriving to mate and nest on Española Island.
Galapagos in January
In January, the warm season is now in its full splendor. Mornings tend to have sunny blue skies, and after the temperatures rise, it's common to have afternoon showers. The guarua fog that was prevelant the past several months is almost nowhere to be seen.
Galapagos in February
Any time is a great time to visit the Galapagos Islands but if you're looking for a break from the winter blues in the northern hemisphere, sunny Galapagos in February is hard to beat.
Galapagos in April
This month and May are typically regarded as the best months to visit the Galapagos. Volume of travelers to the Islands is relatively low, so this is good time to look for a last-minute deal.
Galapagos Ikala 4 night tour package
Explore the most iconic islands in Galapagos staying at the Galapagos Habitat. Get an excellent overview of the islands in five or four-day tours.
Galapagos Ikala 3 night tour package
Explore the most iconic islands in Galapagos staying at the Galapagos Habitat. Get an excellent overview of the islands in five or four-day tours.
Galapagos Hotels & Land-based Trip FAQs
Galapagos land-based tours are quickly gaining popularity as a great cost-effective alternative. Plus, the growing number of resorts, hotels, and other local businesses in the main towns means that there has never been a better time to plan a land-based Galapagos tour.
Galapagos Giant Tortoises
The Galapagos Giant tortoise is perhaps the most iconic animal in Ecuador. In fact, they lend their name to the whole archipelago - when the Spanish explorers first came to the islands, they thought the shells of these giant tortoises resembled a Spanish-style saddle, or “galapago.”
Galapagos Essence 5 days
Galapagos Hotel Tour Package based in Casa Opuntia (San Cristobal), Iguana Crossing (Isabela Island) and Angermeyer Beachfront Hotel (Santa Cruz).
Galapagos Boat FAQs
Ever since tourism in the Galapagos Islands exploded in the late 20th century, cruises have reigned as the number one way to explore the Galapagos Islands.
Floreana Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Finch Bay Hotel
An award winning hotel, Finch Bay offers you a choice between suites with an ocean view or rooms with beautiful garden scenery. The hotel is located across the bay from Puerto Ayora and is just a short walk away from the beach.
Fiesta Hotel
Fiesta Hotel has a great location as it sits just five minutes from the thriving streets of downtown Puerto Ayora and also resides by Las Ninfas lake.
Fernandina Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Fernandina Hotel
Located in a residential area, Fernandina Hotel is just a few minutes away from the Charles Darwin Station on Santa Cruz.
Family Trips to the Galapagos
The new species was found in "an arid, lava-laced lowland" known as Cerro Fatal, according to The New York Times.
Extend your Galapagos Cruise by Staying in Hotels or Taking Land-Based Tours
For many, a trip to the Galapagos comes only once in a lifetime, so make sure that you take advantage of your time here and consider extending your stay before or after your cruise.
Española Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Endemic Species in the Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are considered by biologists one of the world’s most pristine “natural laboratories,” where some of the most fascinating life can be observed in its purest forms. It is here, in the varied and unique ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands, isolated in the Pacific Ocean by more than 600 miles from the mainland, that many endemic species thrive.
Cruising the Galapagos on a 4-day Cruise
If you are traveling children, a 4 or 5 day expedition is usually plenty for parents who decide to bring the kids along. For older couples, cruises can be an amazing way to share retirement; however, long cruises might be more difficult.
Crossman Hotel
The Crossman Hotel is located just two blocks away from Las Ninfas lakes, en route to Tortuga Bay and on the outskirts of the busiest part of Puerto Ayora.
Cotopaxi Volcano Heats Up
In 2015 a rewakening of the giant Cotopaxi volcano was seen. Learn everything that you need to know about planning your trip to nearby Quito and tips on how to get even closer while remaining safe.
Choosing the Best Galapagos Cruise For You
A trip to the Galapagos Islands is no ordinary vacation. There are two options for a Galapagos trip: Cruises and land-based tours. Some people like to combine both these to get the most out of their island experience.
Choosing the best Galapagos 5-day cruise for you
While a 5-day cruise is still a relatively short expedition, you will at least be able to experience several visitor sites and most of the cruise activities. The 5-day option is your best balance for those who want to see a lot but are still trying to manage their budget prudently.
Checklist and packing tips before traveling to Galapagos
Packing advice and tips before your trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Even though planning your vacation to Ecuador or the Galapagos Islands might seem like preparing for a trip to Paradise, there's still a lot to think about.
Charles Darwin's Trip to the Galapagos
Long before the Galapagos Islands were considered a hot tourist destination, Charles Darwin paid them a visit in 1835. As part of a 5-year surveying mission that set sail in 1831 with Captain Robert Fitzroy aboard the HMS Beagle.
Casa Opuntia Hotel
One of the finer San Cristobal hotels, Casa Opuntia is located just off the oceanfront with fantastic views overlooking the beach Playa de Oro.
Casa de Marita Hotel
Marita's house is a first class hotel in which you can enjoy the natural charms of Isabela Island, because it is located in the white sands of Puerto Villamil, offering with an incomparable view and an incomparable nearest
Casa Blanca Hotel
A great hotel for families, the Casa Blanca is located right across from the pier on Charles Darwin street. You can enjoy your room with views to the ocean, as well as options to visit local Galapagos attractions and book Galapagos land tours with the hotel.
Best Galapagos moderately priced cruises
Once you've chosen to make your Galapagos adventure a cruise, the next task is deciding on a boat. There are over one hundred options to choose, from motor sailers to catamarans to bigger ships and even small yachts.
Best economical yachts and cruises in the Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands are best experienced on a cruise, and there are plenty of boats, itineraries, and promotions to suit any budget. All Galapagos cruises focus primarily on exploring the natural and historical wonders of the Islands, so even budget cruises guarantee travelers an unforgettable experience.
Bartolome Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
Albemarle Hotel
Located directly on the pristine white sand beach of Galapagos' most beautiful and peaceful island, Hotel Albemarle offers guests a chance to explore the Galapagos' famous natural wonders from the comfort of the island's most luxurious hotel.
Albatross Galapagos Boutique Hotel
The Albatross Galapagos Boutique Hotel, mid-range priced, is great for families, individuals, or groups. This Galapagos hotel is located on the edge of the Puerto Ayora village with both ocean and garden views.
8-Day Scalesia Lodge and Finch Bay
Discover the Galapagos staying in the best hotels in the islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz. Enjoy an unforgettable combined tour package with award winners Scalesia Lodge and the famed Finch Bay Hotel.
6-Day Galapagos Cruises
Most experts believe that an 8-day cruise is the best balance of time on the islands for the money. While shorter cruises are extremely limited in what you get to see, many people feel that two-week cruises are expensive, long, and even exhausting.
6 Hacks for How To Choose the Perfect Galapagos Cruise
When planning a Galapagos cruise, it might seem like the options are limitless, but keep these hacks in mind and planning it will be a breeze.
5 and 4-day Hotel Packages with Scalesia Lodge
Discover the beauties of Isabela island and its incredible sites from your comfortable accommodations at Scalesia Lodge, featuring one of a kind programs, superb service, and hotel experience that is second to none.