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Galápagos Islands
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Discover the Galápagos Islands, where unique wildlife and stunning landscapes inspired Darwin's theory of evolution. A paradise for nature and adventure lovers alike.

The Galápagos Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ecuador, are a fascinating archipelago known for their unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its role in Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, offering visitors a chance to step into a living scientific laboratory.
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The islands boast a variety of ecosystems, from volcanic landscapes to lush highlands and pristine beaches. Here, you can encounter iconic wildlife such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. Each island has its own distinct environment and species, making every visit a new adventure.
Beyond wildlife, the Galápagos Islands offer an array of activities including snorkeling, diving, hiking, and kayaking. The crystal-clear waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. Whether you're exploring the lava tunnels or relaxing on the white sandy beaches, the Galápagos Islands promise an unforgettable experience.

When is the best time to visit Galápagos Islands?

Best: July–September · 26°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January2751
February2857
March2862
April2858
May2850
June2642
July (best)2628
August (best)2626
September (best)2631
October2636
November2742
December2747

Getting to and around Galápagos Islands

How to get there

The Galápagos Islands are located about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) off the coast of Ecuador. The primary way to reach the islands is by flying from mainland Ecuador. Flights to the Galápagos depart from Quito (Mariscal Sucre International Airport) and Guayaquil (José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport), with Guayaquil often being the more common point of departure. The two main airports in the Galápagos are Seymour Airport (GPS) on Baltra Island and San Cristóbal Airport (SCY) on San Cristóbal Island. It is advisable to book your flights well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Transportation

Transportation within the Galápagos Islands primarily involves boats, taxis, and bicycles. Inter-island travel is usually done by speedboats or small aircraft. Taxis are available on the inhabited islands and are a convenient way to get around towns. Many tourists also choose to rent bicycles to explore the islands at their own pace. Public buses are limited, so planning your transport in advance is crucial. Additionally, organized tours often provide transportation as part of their packages.

Top city travel guides in Galápagos Islands

The cities of Galápagos Islands, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Best attractions in Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands, a pristine paradise brimming with unique wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes, beckon adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can snorkel alongside playful sea lions, observe giant tortoises in their natural habitats, and marvel at the vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters. Hiking trails lead through volcanic terrains and lush highlands, where birdwatchers can spot the famous blue-footed boobies and other endemic species. Each island offers its own distinct charm, from the dramatic cliffs of Genovesa to the serene beaches of Española, making the Galápagos a living museum of evolution and a must-visit destination for those yearning for an unforgettable encounter with nature.

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Best landmarks in Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands, a mesmerizing archipelago teeming with unique wildlife and stunning landscapes, offer an unparalleled adventure for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can marvel at the giant tortoises of Santa Cruz, snorkel alongside playful sea lions and vibrant marine life at Devil's Crown, and hike up the dramatic volcanic terrain of Sierra Negra on Isabela Island. The surreal landscapes of Bartolomé Island, with its iconic Pinnacle Rock, provide breathtaking panoramic views, while the Charles Darwin Research Station offers a deep dive into the islands' pivotal role in evolutionary science. From the blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas to the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, every corner of the Galápagos promises a captivating and unforgettable experience.

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Explore Galápagos Islands on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Galápagos Islands

The dining scene in the Galápagos Islands offers an eclectic array of culinary experiences that tantalize the taste buds with a fusion of Ecuadorian flavors and international cuisine. Visitors can savor freshly caught seafood, from delectable ceviches to grilled fish, often accompanied by locally grown produce. Many restaurants emphasize sustainability and source ingredients from the islands themselves, ensuring a farm-to-table experience that is both delicious and environmentally conscious. Whether dining in a cozy beachside eatery or a more upscale establishment, guests will find an atmosphere that blends rustic charm with breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty, making each meal a memorable adventure.

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Best bars in Galápagos Islands

Visitors to the Galápagos Islands will find that the nightlife scene is as unique as its wildlife, offering a blend of laid-back beachside bars and vibrant nightclubs. In Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, you can sip on tropical cocktails at Bongo Bar while enjoying live music and stunning ocean views. For a more energetic vibe, head to the bustling clubs like Aqua and La Panga, where DJs spin lively tunes that keep the dance floors packed until the early hours. If you prefer a quieter evening, many of the islands' small towns host local gatherings where you can enjoy traditional Ecuadorian music and dance under the stars. Whether you're looking to relax with a drink in hand or dance the night away, the Galápagos offers a memorable nightlife experience in an extraordinary setting.

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Best nightclubs in Galápagos Islands

Visitors to the Galápagos Islands will find that the nightlife scene is as unique as its wildlife, offering a blend of laid-back beachside bars and vibrant nightclubs. In Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, you can sip on tropical cocktails at Bongo Bar while enjoying live music and stunning ocean views. For a more energetic vibe, head to the bustling clubs like Aqua and La Panga, where DJs spin lively tunes that keep the dance floors packed until the early hours. If you prefer a quieter evening, many of the islands' small towns host local gatherings where you can enjoy traditional Ecuadorian music and dance under the stars. Whether you're looking to relax with a drink in hand or dance the night away, the Galápagos offers a memorable nightlife experience in an extraordinary setting.

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Best shops in Galápagos Islands

The shopping scene in the Galápagos Islands is a delightful blend of unique local craftsmanship and vibrant market culture. Visitors can expect to find charming boutiques and souvenir shops offering an array of handmade jewelry, often crafted from lava rocks and endemic seashells, as well as beautifully woven textiles and colorful artwork reflecting the islands' rich biodiversity. Strolling through the quaint towns, you'll also encounter bustling markets where local vendors sell an assortment of fresh produce, exotic spices, and traditional Ecuadorian snacks. For those seeking eco-friendly gifts, many stores feature sustainable products and organic skincare items, reinforcing the islands' commitment to conservation. Each purchase is not just a memento but a piece of the Galápagos' unique heritage and natural beauty.

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Galápagos Islands essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in the Galápagos Islands, as in mainland Ecuador, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and remote areas. ATMs are available in the main towns, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before embarking on tours or visiting less populated islands.
Safety
The Galápagos Islands are generally safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
Emergency Situations
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The islands have medical facilities, but they may be limited compared to mainland Ecuador. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation if needed. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the main towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Avoid wearing camouflage clothing, as it is illegal in Ecuador. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While the islands are not particularly religious, it's good practice to be considerate of local sensibilities. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using local transport options. Don't expect public buses to be as frequent as in mainland cities. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a 'Hola' or 'Buenos días.' Handshakes are common in more formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and traditional dishes. Don't forget to stay hydrated, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.
Local Tips
To experience the Galápagos Islands like a local, consider visiting local markets where you can buy fresh produce and artisan goods. Engage with local residents, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories and provide recommendations. Participate in environmental conservation activities, such as beach clean-ups or volunteering with local organizations. Don't miss out on visiting lesser-known spots like the highlands of Santa Cruz or the lava tunnels, which offer unique experiences away from the more crowded tourist areas.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHola[OH-lah]
GoodbyeAdiós[ah-DYOS]
YesSí[SEE]
NoNo[NO]
Please/You're welcomePor favor[por fah-VOR]
Thank youGracias[GRAH-syahs]
Excuse me/SorryDisculpe[dis-KOOL-peh]
How are you?¿Cómo estás?[KOH-moh eh-STAS]
Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?[BYEN. EE too]
Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?[AH-blas een-GLES]
I don't understandNo entiendo[NO en-TYEN-doh]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQuisiera ver el menú, por favor[kee-SYE-rah vehr el meh-NOO, por fah-VOR]
I don't eat meatNo como carne[NO KOH-mo KAR-neh]
Cheers!¡Salud![sah-LOOD]
I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor[meh goo-STAH-ree-ah pah-GAR, por fah-VOR]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!¡Ayuda![ah-YOO-dah]
Go away!¡Vete![VEH-teh]
Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía![YAH-ma ah lah poh-lee-SIA]
Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor![YAH-ma ah oon dok-TOR]
I'm lostEstoy perdido[es-TOY pehr-DEE-doh]
I'm illEstoy enfermo[es-TOY en-FER-mo]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...[meh goo-STAH-ree-ah kom-PRAHR]
I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando[SO-lo es-TOY mee-RAN-doh]
How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?[KWAN-to KWEH-stah]
That's too expensiveEso es muy caro[EH-so es mooy KAH-ro]
Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?[PWEH-des bah-HAR el PREH-syo]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?¿Qué hora es?[KEH OH-rah es]
It's one o'clockEs la una[es lah OO-nah]
Half past (10)Y diez y media[ee DYAS ee MEH-dyah]
MorningMañana[mah-NYAH-nah]
AfternoonTarde[TAR-deh]
EveningNoche[NOH-cheh]
YesterdayAyer[ah-YER]
TodayHoy[OY]
TomorrowMañana[mah-NYAH-nah]
1Uno[OO-no]
2Dos[DOS]
3Tres[TRES]
4Cuatro[KWAT-ro]
5Cinco[SEEN-ko]
6Seis[SAYS]
7Siete[SYEH-teh]
8Ocho[OH-cho]
9Nueve[NWEH-beh]
10Diez[DYAS]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?[DON-deh es-TAH]
What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?[KWAL es lah dee-rek-SYON]
Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?[PWEH-des mos-TRAR-me (en el MAH-pah)]
When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo sale el próximo (bus)?[KWAN-do SAH-leh el PROHK-see-mo (boos)]
A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)[OON bo-LEH-to (ah ....)]

History of Galápagos Islands

Discovery and Early Exploration

The Galápagos Islands were first discovered accidentally in 1535 by Fray Tomás de Berlanga, the Bishop of Panama, while he was sailing to Peru. The islands appeared as a barren and inhospitable place, which he noted in his letters to the Spanish King Charles V. Early maps from the 16th century began to include the Galápagos, with the islands initially named 'Las Islas Encantadas' or 'The Enchanted Islands' due to the difficulty sailors had in navigating their waters.

Pirates and Whalers

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the Galápagos Islands became a hideout for pirates preying on Spanish treasure galleons. The remote location and numerous coves provided excellent hiding spots. Later, in the 19th century, whalers began to frequent the islands, hunting the abundant whale populations in the surrounding waters. The whalers left a significant impact on the islands' ecosystems, introducing non-native species and exploiting local wildlife.

Charles Darwin's Visit

One of the most pivotal moments in the history of the Galápagos Islands was the visit by Charles Darwin in 1835. Darwin spent five weeks studying the unique flora and fauna of the islands during his journey on the HMS Beagle. His observations of the variations among species from different islands contributed significantly to the development of his theory of evolution by natural selection, which he later published in 'On the Origin of Species'.

Ecuadorian Annexation

In 1832, the Galápagos Islands were officially annexed by Ecuador and named 'Archipiélago de Colón' in honor of Christopher Columbus. The annexation marked the beginning of human settlement on the islands, although initial attempts at colonization faced numerous challenges, including the harsh environment and limited resources.

World War II and Military Presence

During World War II, the strategic importance of the Galápagos Islands was recognized by the United States. The U.S. established a military base on Baltra Island, using it as a defense point to protect the Panama Canal from potential Axis powers' attacks. The military presence brought infrastructure development to the islands, including an airstrip and other facilities.

Establishment of the Galápagos National Park

In 1959, 97% of the Galápagos Islands' land area was declared a national park by the Ecuadorian government to protect its unique ecosystems and biodiversity. This was followed by the establishment of the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Charles Darwin Research Station in 1964, which have played crucial roles in scientific research and conservation efforts on the islands.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In recognition of their outstanding universal value, the Galápagos Islands were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. This status has helped to garner international support and cooperation in the conservation of the islands' unique natural heritage. The designation has also contributed to the development of sustainable tourism practices aimed at preserving the islands' delicate ecosystems.

Galápagos Islands in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

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Neighbouring regions of Galápagos Islands

The closest regions to Galápagos Islands, if you have time for more than one.

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Ecuador
More of the region

Explore more of Ecuador

Explore Ecuador: From the Amazon rainforest and Andean highlands to the Pacific coast and Galápagos Islands, discover diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures.

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Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Galápagos Islands

Discover Galápagos Islands with Evendo, your 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, hotels, tours, and much more, all in one place.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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Experience the best of the Galápagos Islands with Evendo, your comprehensive and free travel guide app. Explore landmarks, book tours, and get local tips, all in one place.

  • History of Galápagos Islands and essential travel tips
  • Near Me feature to find nearby attractions
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or hidden costs
  • Global coverage of over 7,000 destinations

Welcome to Evendo, the ultimate travel companion for your trip to the enchanting Galápagos Islands. As a traveler, you can now explore this unique destination like never before, with detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities, all at your fingertips. The app provides rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it incredibly easy for you to plan and organize your trip.

Imagine strolling through the stunning landscapes of the Galápagos, visiting renowned landmarks like the Charles Darwin Research Station or the pristine beaches of Tortuga Bay. With Evendo, you can seamlessly book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences without the hassle of searching multiple sources. Discover top-rated restaurants such as Angermeyer Waterfront Inn and enjoy local delicacies while soaking in the island vibes.

Evendo also features comprehensive guides on the history of the Galápagos Islands and essential travel tips to ensure you make the most out of your visit. Whether it's navigating through the app or exploring the city, the 'Near Me' feature helps you find nearby attractions effortlessly. The curated local tips let you experience the islands like a true local, uncovering hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

And the best part? Evendo is completely free. No in-app purchases, no hidden costs—just pure, unadulterated travel bliss. Plus, with coverage of over 7,000 destinations worldwide, you’ll have the world in your pocket, ready to explore whenever you are.

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