Overview
The Galápagos Islands lie about 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador. Giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, blue-footed boobies and many species found nowhere else live there. The islands were among the first places to be listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, in 1978.
Most of the land is a national park, and many visitor sites can be reached only with licensed naturalist guides. Visitors see the islands on cruises or on day trips from Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal and Isabela.
Best time to visit
Wildlife can be seen all year. December to May is warmer with calmer seas; June to November is cooler and drier, with richer marine life.
Highlights
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1
Charles Darwin Research Station
Giant tortoise breeding programmes near Puerto Ayora.
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2
Santa Cruz highlands
Wild giant tortoises in pastures and forests.
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3
Snorkelling
Sea lions, turtles, rays and reef fish in clear water.
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4
Isabela and Fernandina
Young volcanic landscapes with marine iguanas and flightless cormorants.
Getting there
Flights from Quito or Guayaquil land on Baltra (for Santa Cruz) or San Cristóbal. Visitors pay entry and transit fees on arrival; check the current rules before you fly.
Practical tips
- Opening & tickets
- Opening times, ticket rules and any visitor limits change, so check the official information before you go.
- Time needed
- At least five days; a week or more for a cruise.
Official information: UNESCO: Galápagos Islands. Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
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