Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Kicker Rock

Kicker Rock

Punta Suarez

Punta Suarez

Chinese Hat

Chinese Hat

Galápagos National Park

Galápagos National Park

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Top Places to Visit in Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

A living laboratory of evolution, the Galápagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago where Charles Darwin developed his theory of natural selection. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers visitors the rare opportunity to encounter fearless wildlife that has never learned to fear humans. From giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies and sea lions, the Galápagos provide an unparalleled wildlife experience in one of the world's most pristine natural environments.

Charles Darwin Research Station
#1

Charles Darwin Research Station

2–3 hours
Free

A scientific research center on Santa Cruz Island featuring giant tortoise breeding programs, educational exhibits, and conservation projects.

Updated June 23, 2025
Tortuga Bay
#2

Tortuga Bay

3–4 hours
Free

A pristine white sand beach on Santa Cruz Island, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and observing marine iguanas and sea turtles.

Updated June 23, 2025
Los Tuneles
#3

Los Tuneles

4–5 hours
$120

A snorkeling site on Isabela Island featuring lava tunnels, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life including sea horses and sharks.

Updated June 23, 2025
Sierra Negra Volcano
#4

Sierra Negra Volcano

6–8 hours
$80

The second largest volcanic caldera in the world, offering hiking trails with stunning views of the crater and surrounding landscape.

Updated June 23, 2025
Kicker Rock
#5

Kicker Rock

4–5 hours
$100

A dramatic rock formation off San Cristóbal Island, famous for snorkeling and diving with sharks, rays, and tropical fish.

Updated June 23, 2025
Punta Espinosa
#6

Punta Espinosa

2–3 hours
$60

A visitor site on Fernandina Island featuring marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and the youngest lava flows in the archipelago.

Updated June 23, 2025
Post Office Bay
#7

Post Office Bay

1–2 hours
$60

A historic site on Floreana Island where whalers left letters in a barrel, continuing a tradition that visitors can participate in today.

Updated June 23, 2025
Punta Cormorant
#8

Punta Cormorant

2–3 hours
$60

A visitor site on Floreana Island featuring a green sand beach, flamingos, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Updated June 23, 2025
Gardner Bay
#9

Gardner Bay

2–3 hours
$60

A beautiful white sand beach on Española Island, home to sea lions, marine iguanas, and excellent snorkeling conditions.

Updated June 23, 2025
Punta Suarez
#10

Punta Suarez

2–3 hours
$60

A visitor site on Española Island featuring waved albatross, blue-footed boobies, and spectacular blowhole formations.

Updated June 23, 2025
Genovesa Island
#11

Genovesa Island

3–4 hours
$80

Known as 'Bird Island,' featuring red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and storm petrels in their natural habitat.

Updated June 23, 2025
Bartolome Island
#12

Bartolome Island

3–4 hours
$80

A small island featuring the iconic Pinnacle Rock, panoramic views, and excellent snorkeling with penguins and sea lions.

Updated June 23, 2025
North Seymour Island
#13

North Seymour Island

2–3 hours
$80

A small island featuring magnificent frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies, and land iguanas in a dry forest environment.

Updated June 23, 2025
Rabida Island
#14

Rabida Island

2–3 hours
$80

Known for its red sand beach, featuring sea lions, pelicans, and excellent snorkeling with colorful fish and rays.

Updated June 23, 2025
Chinese Hat
#15

Chinese Hat

2–3 hours
$80

A small volcanic cone near Santiago Island, featuring sea lions, marine iguanas, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Updated June 23, 2025
Plaza Sur
#16

Plaza Sur

2–3 hours
$80

A small island featuring land iguanas, sea lions, and colorful sesuvium plants that change color with the seasons.

Updated June 23, 2025
San Cristobal Interpretation Center
#17

San Cristobal Interpretation Center

1–2 hours
Free

An educational center providing information about the natural and human history of the Galápagos Islands.

Updated June 23, 2025
El Junco Lagoon
#18

El Junco Lagoon

1–2 hours
$30

The only freshwater lake in the Galápagos, located in a volcanic crater on San Cristóbal Island, home to frigatebirds and other wildlife.

Updated June 23, 2025
Wall of Tears
#19

Wall of Tears

1–2 hours
$30

A historic site on Isabela Island where prisoners were forced to build a wall, now a reminder of the island's penal colony past.

Updated June 23, 2025
Galápagos National Park
#20

Galápagos National Park

Full day
$100

A protected area covering 97% of the land area of the Galápagos Islands, preserving the unique biodiversity and ecosystems.

Updated June 23, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions About Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Get answers to common questions about visiting Galápagos Islands, Ecuador