Top 20 Places to Visit in the Galapagos Islands

Exploring the Top 20 Attractions of the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living laboratory of evolution, captivate visitors with their unique biodiversity and stunning landscapes. From enchanting wildlife encounters to breathtaking natural wonders, the Galapagos offer an unforgettable adventure for travelers of all ages and interests. Let's dive into the top 20 things and places to see in this extraordinary archipelago.

Tortuga Bay, Santa Cruz Island

Who it appeals to: Nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and families seeking a relaxing day by the sea.
Insider Tips: Bring snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish and sea turtles. Don't forget to pack plenty of sunscreen and water, as there are limited facilities on the beach.
Practicalities: Access to Tortuga Bay is free, and visitors can reach the beach by hiking along a well-marked trail from Puerto Ayora, the main town on Santa Cruz Island. The hike takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

Charles Darwin Research Station, Santa Cruz Island

The Charles Darwin Research Station, located on Santa Cruz Island, is a leading scientific research center dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the Galapagos ecosystem. Visitors can learn about ongoing conservation efforts and observe giant tortoises in various stages of their life cycle.
Who it appeals to: Science enthusiasts, conservationists, and anyone interested in learning about the unique flora and fauna of the Galapagos.
Insider Tips: Join a guided tour to gain insights from knowledgeable naturalists and researchers. Make sure to visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center to see baby tortoises up close.
Practicalities: The research station is open daily from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Admission fees apply, with discounts available for students and children.

Bartolomé Island

Bartolomé Island is famous for its iconic Pinnacle Rock, a striking volcanic formation that rises from the sea. Visitors can hike to the island's summit for breathtaking panoramic views and snorkel in the surrounding waters, home to diverse marine life.
Who it appeals to: Adventure seekers, photographers, and snorkeling enthusiasts eager to explore one of the Galapagos' most photogenic landscapes.
Insider Tips: Don't miss the opportunity to snorkel with Galapagos penguins and encounter marine iguanas along the island's coastline. Be prepared for a steep climb to the summit, but the views are well worth the effort.
Practicalities: Access to Bartolomé Island is typically included in guided day tours from nearby islands such as Santa Cruz or San Cristobal. Visitors should wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike.

Los Tuneles, Isabela Island

Los Tuneles, located off the coast of Isabela Island, is a unique geological formation formed by lava tunnels and arches. Visitors can snorkel through crystal-clear waters, spotting an array of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
Who it appeals to: Snorkeling enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers eager to explore underwater caves and tunnels teeming with marine biodiversity.
Insider Tips: Book a guided snorkeling tour to navigate the labyrinth of tunnels safely and learn about the area's geological history. Keep an eye out for blue-footed boobies and other seabirds nesting on the rocky shores.
Practicalities: Access to Los Tuneles is only possible via guided boat tours departing from Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island. Tour prices vary depending on the duration and inclusions, so be sure to shop around for the best options.

Sierra Negra Volcano, Isabela Island

Sierra Negra Volcano, located on Isabela Island, is one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos archipelago. Visitors can embark on a challenging hike to the volcano's crater rim, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Who it appeals to: Hiking enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone interested in witnessing the raw power of volcanic activity.
Insider Tips: Start the hike early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day and maximize your chances of clear views from the crater rim. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including strong winds and potential rainfall.
Practicalities: Access to Sierra Negra Volcano is typically included in guided hiking tours departing from Puerto Villamil. Hikers should wear sturdy footwear, dress in layers, and bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey.

Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido), San Cristobal Island

Kicker Rock, also known as Leon Dormido, is a distinctive rock formation located off the coast of San Cristobal Island. Visitors can snorkel or dive around the rock, encountering a diverse array of marine life, including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and rays.
Who it appeals to: Scuba divers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers eager to explore one of the Galapagos' premier diving sites.
Insider Tips: Join a guided snorkeling or diving excursion to explore the waters around Kicker Rock safely and responsibly. Keep an eye out for elusive marine species such as manta rays and hammerhead sharks, especially during the dry season.
Practicalities: Access to Kicker Rock is typically included in guided boat tours departing from San Cristobal Island. Snorkeling and diving equipment are provided, but participants should have previous experience and be comfortable in open water.

Las Grietas, Santa Cruz Island

Las Grietas is a series of deep, crystal-clear pools located on Santa Cruz Island, nestled between towering lava cliffs. Visitors can swim in the refreshing waters, surrounded by dramatic natural scenery and unique rock formations.
Who it appeals to: Nature lovers, hikers, and families looking for a refreshing outdoor adventure away from the crowds.
Insider Tips: Plan to visit Las Grietas early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times of the day. Wear sturdy footwear for the short hike to the pools and bring sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun.
Practicalities: Access to Las Grietas is via a short hike from Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. The trail is well-marked, and there is no entrance fee to visit the pools.

North Seymour Island

North Seymour Island is a small, uninhabited island located near Baltra Island. Visitors can take guided walking tours to observe nesting seabirds, including magnificent frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies, in their natural habitat.

Who it appeals to: Birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers interested in observing the fascinating behaviors of Galapagos seabirds.
Insider Tips: Visit North Seymour Island during the breeding season (May to November) to witness the spectacle of courtship displays and nesting activities. Keep a respectful distance from nesting birds and follow the guidance of your naturalist guide to minimize disturbance.
Practicalities: Access to North Seymour Island is typically included in guided day tours departing from Santa Cruz or San Cristobal Island. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring binoculars for birdwatching.

Darwin Bay, Genovesa Island

Darwin Bay, located on Genovesa Island, is a pristine white-sand beach surrounded by towering cliffs and mangrove forests. Visitors can explore the bay's rich biodiversity, including colonies of seabirds and vibrant marine life.

Who it appeals to: Nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and beach lovers seeking a secluded and peaceful escape in the Galapagos.
Insider Tips: Bring snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world around Darwin Bay, home to colorful fish, sea turtles, and playful sea lions. Don't forget your camera to capture stunning views of the bay and its inhabitants.
Practicalities: Access to Darwin Bay is typically included in guided boat tours to Genovesa Island. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear for wet landings and be prepared for potential rough seas during the boat journey.

Cormorant Point, Floreana Island

Sullivan Bay, Santiago Island

Sullivan Bay, located on Santiago Island, is home to some of the Galapagos' most striking volcanic landscapes. Visitors can explore the island's otherworldly terrain, characterized by black lava fields, lava tubes, and unique geological formations.
Who it appeals to: Geology enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurers intrigued by the fascinating processes of volcanic activity and island formation.
Insider Tips: Take a guided walking tour to learn about the geological history of Sullivan Bay and the forces that shaped its dramatic landscapes. Wear sturdy footwear for hiking over uneven terrain and exploring lava formations.
Practicalities: Access to Sullivan Bay is typically included in guided day tours to Santiago Island. Visitors should be prepared for hot and dry conditions, with limited shade available on the volcanic terrain.

Gardner Bay, Española Island

Gardner Bay, located on Española Island, is renowned for its pristine white-sand beach and abundant wildlife, including playful sea lions and colorful marine iguanas. Visitors can relax on the beach, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, and observe seabirds soaring overhead.
Who it appeals to: Beach lovers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and wildlife photographers seeking a tranquil and picturesque setting to unwind and explore.
Insider Tips: Bring snorkeling gear to swim with sea lions and spot tropical fish and sea turtles in the bay's shallow waters. Keep an eye out for Nazca boobies nesting along the cliffs and mockingbirds foraging on the beach.
Practicalities: Access to Gardner Bay is typically included in guided day tours to Española Island. Visitors should wear swimwear and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water for a day of beach exploration.

Post Office Bay, Floreana Island

Who it appeals to: History enthusiasts, travelers interested in unique cultural traditions, and anyone looking for a fun and interactive way to connect with the island's past.
Insider Tips: Bring postcards from your home country to leave in the barrel and collect postcards addressed to your destination to hand-deliver upon your return. Take a moment to read some of the messages left by previous visitors, which often contain travel tips and well wishes.
Practicalities: Access to Post Office Bay is typically included in guided day tours to Floreana Island. Visitors should be prepared for a wet landing on the beach and wear sturdy footwear for exploring the area.

Punta Pitt, San Cristobal Island

Who it appeals to: Hiking enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and photographers drawn to the rugged beauty and biodiversity of the Galapagos.
Insider Tips: Take a guided hike to Punta Pitt to learn about the island's geological history and observe unique bird species, including red-footed and blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and swallow-tailed gulls. Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Practicalities: Access to Punta Pitt is typically included in guided day tours to San Cristobal Island. Visitors should wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for a challenging hike over rocky terrain.

Los Gemelos (Twin Craters), Santa Cruz Island

Los Gemelos, also known as the Twin Craters, are two large volcanic depressions located on Santa Cruz Island. Formed by the collapse of underground magma chambers, these crater-like sinkholes are surrounded by lush highland forests and endemic vegetation.
Who it appeals to: Nature lovers, hikers, and photographers interested in exploring the geological wonders and diverse ecosystems of the Galapagos highlands.
Insider Tips: Take a guided walking tour to learn about the formation and significance of Los Gemelos from knowledgeable naturalist guides. Keep an eye out for endemic bird species such as the vermilion flycatcher and the Galapagos rail while hiking through the surrounding forests.
Practicalities: Access to Los Gemelos is typically included in guided day tours to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for variable weather conditions, including rain and mist.

Black Turtle Cove, Santa Cruz Island

Black Turtle Cove, located on the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island, is a tranquil mangrove estuary teeming with marine life. Visitors can explore the cove by panga (small boat), observing sea turtles, rays, sharks, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Who it appeals to: Nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and photographers interested in experiencing the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of a mangrove ecosystem.
Insider Tips: Join a guided boat tour of Black Turtle Cove to navigate the shallow channels and mangrove-lined shores safely. Keep your camera ready to capture close-up encounters with sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, and golden rays gliding beneath the surface.
Practicalities: Access to Black Turtle Cove is typically included in guided day tours departing from Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Visitors should wear sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing suitable for warm and humid conditions.

Devil's Crown, Floreana Island

Devil's Crown is a unique volcanic crater located off the coast of Floreana Island, renowned for its exceptional snorkeling opportunities and abundant marine life. Visitors can swim with schools of colorful fish, sea turtles, and playful sea lions in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the submerged crater.
Who it appeals to: Snorkeling enthusiasts, underwater photographers, and adventurers seeking an unforgettable aquatic experience in the Galapagos.
Insider Tips: Join a guided snorkeling tour to explore Devil's Crown safely and responsibly, following the guidance of experienced naturalist guides. Keep an eye out for reef sharks, eagle rays, and moray eels lurking among the rocky crevices of the crater.
Practicalities: Access to Devil's Crown is typically included in guided boat tours departing from Puerto Ayora or Puerto Villamil. Visitors should wear snorkeling gear (provided by tour operators) and be comfortable swimming in open water.

Darwin Bay Beach, Genovesa Island

Darwin Bay Beach, located on Genovesa Island, is a pristine white-sand beach surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the turquoise waters, and observe nesting seabirds, including red-footed and Nazca boobies.
Who it appeals to: Beach lovers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil and scenic escape in the Galapagos.
Insider Tips: Plan to visit Darwin Bay Beach during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day and enjoy the best lighting for photography. Keep a respectful distance from nesting seabirds and follow the guidance of your naturalist guide to minimize disturbance.
Practicalities: Access to Darwin Bay Beach is typically included in guided day tours to Genovesa Island. Visitors should wear swimwear, bring sunscreen and a hat, and pack plenty of water and snacks for a day of beach exploration.

Prince Philip's Steps, Genovesa Island

Prince Philip's Steps, also known as El Barranco, is a dramatic cliffside landing site located on Genovesa Island. Visitors can disembark from boats and hike along a rocky trail, observing nesting seabirds and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.
Who it appeals to: Birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and adventurers eager to explore the rugged terrain and rich biodiversity of Genovesa Island.
Insider Tips: Take a guided hike along the rocky trail to Prince Philip's Steps to learn about the island's geological history and observe unique bird species, including red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain and potential wildlife encounters.
Practicalities: Access to Prince Philip's Steps is typically included in guided day tours to Genovesa Island. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear, bring sunscreen and insect repellent, and be prepared for a moderate hike over rocky terrain.

Highlands of Santa Cruz Island

The highlands of Santa Cruz Island are a lush and verdant region characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and verdant farmland. Visitors can explore the area on guided hiking tours, observing giant tortoises, lava tunnels, and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Who it appeals to: Nature lovers, hikers, and photographers interested in experiencing the diverse ecosystems and geological wonders of the Galapagos highlands.
Insider Tips: Visit the highlands during the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Twin Craters (Los Gemelos) and explore the underground tunnels created by ancient lava flows.
Practicalities: Access to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island is typically included in guided day tours departing from Puerto Ayora. Visitors should wear sturdy walking shoes, dress in layers for variable weather conditions, and bring plenty of water and snacks for hiking.

Let's Go

The Galapagos Islands offer an unparalleled adventure for travelers seeking to explore some of the most extraordinary landscapes and wildlife on the planet. From pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to rugged volcanic terrain and unique ecosystems, the Galapagos have something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you're snorkeling with sea lions, hiking through lava fields, or marveling at nesting seabirds, the Galapagos will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Contact Adventure Life today to start planning your unforgettable journey to the Galapagos Islands!