Destination scores
Practical info
The Galápagos Islands are a living museum of evolutionary changes, where you can walk alongside giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island's El Chato Tortoise Reserve. This reserve offers a rare chance to observe these ancient creatures in their natural habitat, grazing amidst the lush highlands. Beyond the famous wildlife, the islands have a rich history of human exploration. On Floreana Island, visit Post Office Bay, where 18th-century whalers set up a barrel as a makeshift mail system. Travelers continue the tradition by leaving and taking letters without postage. The underwater world of the Galápagos is as compelling as its land. At Devil’s Crown, a submerged volcanic cone near Floreana Island, snorkelers are treated to a colorful array of marine life, including parrotfish and sea turtles, amidst stunning coral formations.
Best time to visit
June through November — cooler temperatures, nutrient-rich currents attract diverse marine life.
Month by month
Warm rains begin, and green sea turtles start laying eggs on the beaches.
Peak of the rainy season; land birds start nesting, and marine iguanas change color.
Wettest month, with lush vegetation; waved albatrosses return to Española Island.
End of rainy season; warm and humid, with great underwater visibility.
Waved albatrosses begin courtship on Española Island; weather becomes drier.
Cooler temperatures and garúa mist; giant tortoises begin migrating to lowlands.
Peak tourism season; whales and dolphins are more commonly seen.
Strong winds and cooler seas; seabird activity is high.
Quietest tourist month; seas can be choppy, affecting boat tours.
Cool and dry; good time for diving with hammerhead sharks at Darwin and Wolf islands.
Transition period; waters start warming, increasing marine life activity.
Hot and sunny; sea lion pups are born, and green sea turtles begin mating.
Highlights
- ✦El Chato Tortoise Reserve — Walk among giant tortoises in their natural environment on Santa Cruz Island.
- ✦Post Office Bay — Participate in a centuries-old tradition of sending mail without postage on Floreana Island.
- ✦Devil’s Crown — Snorkel in a submerged volcanic crater teeming with colorful marine life near Floreana Island.
- ✦Charles Darwin Research Station — Learn about conservation efforts and see the breeding programs for endangered species on Santa Cruz Island.
- ✦Bartolomé Island — Climb to the summit for panoramic views of Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding islands.
Hidden gems
Practical tips
- ·Book inter-island flights and boat tours well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- ·Carry cash in USD, as not all places accept credit cards, and ATMs are scarce on some islands.
- ·Strictly follow park rules to avoid disturbing the wildlife and natural habitats.
- ·Public ferries between islands can be rough; motion sickness tablets are recommended.
Budget estimate
$200–300 USD / day (mid-range)
