Explore the Wonders of the Galápagos Marine Reserve
Discover the breathtaking underwater world of the Galápagos Marine Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with unique marine life and stunning ecosystems.
The Galápagos Marine Reserve is a breathtaking natural sanctuary that invites tourists to immerse themselves in its unique marine biodiversity. Located in Ecuador, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts an array of stunning underwater ecosystems, including vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Ideal for snorkeling, diving, and eco-tours, the reserve offers unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Galápagos Marine Reserve
- EC
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:15 am-6:15 pm
Local tips
- Book your tours in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best experiences.
- Bring eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystems.
- Consider a guided tour for a more informative experience about the reserve's biodiversity.
- Plan for early morning visits to enjoy the serene beauty and avoid crowds.
- Respect wildlife regulations and maintain a safe distance from all marine animals.
Getting There
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Boat
To reach the Galápagos Marine Reserve, start by making your way to the main port in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. From there, you can book a tour with a local operator that offers day trips to various parts of the reserve. Make sure to inquire about the trip's itinerary, as some tours might take you to specific islands or snorkeling spots within the reserve. Generally, tours depart in the early morning, so arrive at the port at least 30 minutes before departure.
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Tourist Boat
If you are on San Cristóbal Island, head to the main pier in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Similar to Santa Cruz, you can find several operators offering guided tours to the Galápagos Marine Reserve. It is advisable to book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The tours here may include a combination of snorkeling and wildlife observation, allowing you to explore the breathtaking underwater ecosystems.
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Yacht or Liveaboard
For a more immersive experience, consider booking a yacht or liveaboard tour that includes the Galápagos Marine Reserve. These tours can be arranged through travel agencies or local tour operators in either Puerto Ayora or Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The advantage of a liveaboard is that you can explore multiple sites within the reserve over several days, engaging in activities like diving, snorkeling, and hiking.
Discover more about Galápagos Marine Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Santiago Island
12.6 km
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and rich wildlife of Santiago Island, a jewel of the Galápagos archipelago.
Rabida Island
29.7 km
Explore the stunning red beaches and unique biodiversity of Rabida Island, a hidden gem in the Galápagos archipelago perfect for nature lovers.
Daphne Major
51.5 km
Explore the untouched beauty and unique wildlife of Daphne Major, a captivating volcanic island in the Galápagos archipelago.
Cabo Marshall
52.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cabo Marshall, a tranquil peninsula in Ecuador, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador Guide
62.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, a must-visit destination for every nature lover and adventure seeker.
Galapagos Safari Camp
62.9 km
Discover the stunning Galapagos Islands at Galapagos Safari Camp, where eco-luxury meets adventure and wildlife encounters in paradise.
Santa Cruz to Baltra ferry terminal
63.9 km
Discover the stunning gateway to the Galápagos Islands at the Santa Cruz to Baltra Ferry Terminal, where adventure awaits across the Pacific.
Rancho Terramar
64.5 km
Experience the authentic charm of Ecuador at Rancho Terramar, a premier dude ranch offering adventure, relaxation, and delicious local cuisine.
Montemar - Galapagos Eco Luxury Villas for Groups & Families
70.6 km
Experience eco-luxury at Montemar in the Galapagos, where nature meets comfort for families and groups seeking relaxation and adventure.
Rancho El Manzanillo
71.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Rancho El Manzanillo, a premier resort hotel in Puerto Ayora, Galápagos Islands, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Pikaia Lodge
75.5 km
Discover the ultimate luxury retreat at Pikaia Lodge in the Galapagos, where nature meets elegance and adventure awaits.
Pinchos del Gato Mera
80.8 km
Experience the ultimate grill dining at Pinchos del Gato Mera in Puerto Ayora, where fresh ingredients meet authentic flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.
La Mirada De Solitario George
80.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and nature at La Mirada De Solitario George in Puerto Ayora, your gateway to the magnificent Galapagos Islands.
tour 360 Galapagos + Kiker Rock //Explore San Crisotobal Island
80.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and unique wildlife of San Cristobal Island with Tour 360 Galapagos, your ultimate sightseeing adventure in the Galapagos.
Homestay
80.9 km
Discover the charm of the Galapagos Islands at Homestay, your cozy bed & breakfast in the heart of Puerto Ayora.
Unmissable attractions to see
Espumilla Beach
10.9 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Espumilla Beach on Santiago Island, where stunning landscapes meet vibrant wildlife in the heart of the Galapagos.
Galapagos Islands
12.7 km
Discover the unparalleled beauty and unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Pinnacle Rock
25.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pinnacle Rock, an iconic mountain peak in Ecuador, perfect for hiking and enjoying stunning panoramic views.
Bartolomé Island
26.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife of Bartolomé Island, a must-visit destination in the Galápagos Islands.
Cerro Dragon
50.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Cerro Dragon in Santa Cruz, a top tourist attraction showcasing stunning views and unique wildlife in the Galapagos Islands.
Pinzón Island
51.7 km
Explore the unspoiled beauty and rich wildlife of Pinzón Island, a hidden gem in the Galapagos archipelago, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Galapagos National Park
51.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife of Galapagos National Park, a premier destination for eco-tourism and adventure.
North Seymour Island
57.8 km
Explore North Seymour Island's stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable snorkeling in the heart of the Galápagos archipelago.
Isla Seymour
58.1 km
Experience Isla Seymour, a breathtaking Galapagos island rich in wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unparalleled marine adventures, perfect for nature lovers.
Las Bachas
58.7 km
Explore the pristine shores of Las Bachas Beach, a hidden gem in the Galapagos Islands, perfect for relaxation, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters.
Playa Las Bachas
59.0 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Playa Las Bachas, a tranquil beach paradise in the Galapagos, home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
Urbina Bay
59.5 km
Discover the natural splendor of Urbina Bay on Isabela Island, a paradise of stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich marine life.
Baltra Island
62.9 km
Explore Baltra Island in the Galápagos: a haven of unique wildlife, stunning beaches, and unforgettable experiences in nature's paradise.
Itabaca Channel
64.4 km
Experience the Itabaca Channel, a stunning connection to the Galapagos Islands, rich in marine life and breathtaking landscapes.
Galapagos Island, Ecuado
65.8 km
Explore the enchanting Galapagos Islands, a unique nature preserve with stunning wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Essential places to dine
Royal Palm Curio Galapagos - The Highland Cafe
67.8 km
Discover exquisite dining at The Highland Cafe in Galapagos - where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
The Union Restaurant
80.8 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at The Union Restaurant in Puerto Ayora – where every dish tells a story.
La Cañita
80.8 km
Experience the essence of Ecuadorian cuisine at La Cañita in Puerto Ayora - where every dish tells a story.
Finca Grill Restaurante
80.9 km
Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at Finca Grill Restaurante in Puerto Ayora—where flavor meets paradise in the Galapagos Islands.
Los Moros
81.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of Ecuador at Los Moros in Isla Santiago - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
La Paz
81.0 km
Explore La Paz: A Culinary Haven in Ecuador with Breathtaking Landscapes and Rich Cultural Experiences.
La Sazón de las Kiños
81.1 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at La Sazón de las Kiños in Puerto Ayora, where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors.
Fraileana Food Park
81.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Ecuador at Fraileana Food Park, where culinary delights await in the heart of Puerto Ayora.
Playa Sol Y Mar
81.5 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Playa Sol Y Mar in Puerto Ayora - where every dish tells a story.
La Cevicheria by Isla Grill
81.5 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian ceviche at La Cevicheria by Isla Grill in Puerto Ayora—where fresh seafood meets local flavor.
Anca Restaurante Galapagos
81.5 km
Experience the essence of Ecuadorian cuisine at Anca Restaurante Galapagos - where every dish tells a story.
Burger House
81.5 km
Savor gourmet burgers in the heart of Puerto Ayora at Burger House – where flavor meets fun in the Galapagos Islands.
La Pausa
81.6 km
Experience the freshest seafood in Puerto Ayora at La Pausa – where every dish tells a story of the Galapagos.
PLAZA EL JARDÍN GALÁPAGOS
81.6 km
Experience vibrant dining at Plaza El Jardín Galápagos with fresh local flavors and tropical ambiance in Puerto Ayora.
Nazca Restaurant
81.6 km
Experience exquisite fusion cuisine at Nazca Restaurant - where Ecuadorian, Peruvian & Spanish flavors come together in Puerto Ayora.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tiendas del Aeropuerto Ecológico Galápagos
62.2 km
Explore the best of Galápagos souvenirs at Tiendas del Aeropuerto Ecológico, celebrating local artisans and eco-friendly products.
Smart Click
80.6 km
Discover the charm of Puerto Ayora at Smart Click, your go-to shopping mall for unique souvenirs and local delicacies in the Galapagos Islands.
TiOS store at the waterfall
80.6 km
Discover the TiOS Store at the Waterfall - your gateway to local flavors and essentials in beautiful Puerto Ayora.
Ace Shark Store
80.7 km
Explore Ace Shark Store in Puerto Ayora for a unique gaming experience with a vast selection of video games for rental, perfect for all ages.
Mini Market La Gatita
80.7 km
Explore Mini Market La Gatita in Puerto Ayora for fresh, organic, and health-conscious products in the heart of the Galapagos Islands.
trajes de baño GALAPAGOS
80.9 km
Explore vibrant beachwear at Trajes de Baño Galápagos, where local designs meet the stunning beauty of the islands' beaches.
Los Pingüinos
80.9 km
Explore Los Pingüinos, a charming toy store in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos Islands, offering a vibrant selection of toys and unique gifts for all ages.
Tienda Albatros.
81.0 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of the Galápagos at Tienda Albatros, your go-to grocery store in Puerto Ayora for local produce and snacks.
D' Willy Santa Cruz
81.0 km
Explore the Galapagos in style with D' Willy Santa Cruz - your ultimate destination for beachwear, footwear, and fashion accessories.
Latintour
81.1 km
Explore Latintour in Puerto Ayora for unique local crafts and authentic Ecuadorian souvenirs, capturing the spirit of the Galápagos Islands.
El Dulzon
81.2 km
Discover El Dulzon in Puerto Ayora, a delightful cake shop offering a mouthwatering selection of pastries and cakes to satisfy your sweet cravings.
City Market
81.2 km
Discover the vibrant City Market in Puerto Ayora, where local culture, fresh produce, and unique crafts come together in a lively atmosphere.
MILCOLORES
81.2 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Milcolores in Puerto Ayora, where unique local crafts and colorful souvenirs await every traveler seeking a piece of the Galapagos.
Mini Shop Paolita
81.3 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at Mini Shop Paolita, your go-to grocery store in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Marine Shop
81.3 km
Discover the perfect gear for your Galapagos adventure at Galapagos Marine Shop, where expertise meets exceptional service in Puerto Ayora.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
REPTILIA GALAPAGOS BREWERY
79.9 km
Experience the taste of the Galapagos at Reptilia Brewery, where local flavors and artisanal brews come together in a vibrant island atmosphere.
Fernandina Lounge & Bar
81.4 km
Experience the flavors of the Galapagos at Fernandina Lounge & Bar, where grilled delights and refreshing cocktails await in Puerto Ayora.
Galapagos Beer Company - Boobies Craft Beer
81.4 km
Discover the flavors of the Galapagos at Galapagos Beer Company, a brewpub offering unique craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere in Puerto Ayora.
booths and cyber
81.4 km
Discover Booths and Cyber, a vibrant bar in Puerto Ayora, offering a unique blend of local drinks and a lively atmosphere for travelers.
Bohemian.Bar Galapagos
81.6 km
Discover the lively ambiance and unique cocktails at Bohemian.Bar Galapagos, the perfect spot for tourists in Puerto Ayora.
Al Paso
81.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Al Paso, a premier grill restaurant in Puerto Ayora, serving authentic Ecuadorian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bowl Acai Bar
81.6 km
Discover Bowl Acai Bar in Puerto Ayora: Your go-to spot for vibrant acai bowls and healthful delights in the heart of the Galapagos.
Darwin's Lounge
81.6 km
Experience the best cocktails at Darwin's Lounge in Puerto Ayora, where creativity meets the laid-back island vibe of the Galapagos.
AYORA Resto Wine
81.6 km
Experience the essence of Samay at AYORA Resto Wine, where exquisite tapas and fine wines create unforgettable moments.
Alessandro
81.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Galapagos at Alessandro Grill in Puerto Ayora, where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.
REPTILIA GALAPAGOS BEER STATION
81.6 km
Experience the unique flavors of Galapagos at Reptilia Beer Station, where craft beers and local culture meet in a cozy brewpub atmosphere.
Cervecería Artesanal Cactácea Drink
81.6 km
Experience the best of local craft beers in a vibrant setting at Cervecería Artesanal Cactácea Drink, Puerto Ayora's hidden gem.
Bugan Villa
81.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and tropical charm of Bugan Villa, a bar in Puerto Ayora that blends good music with an inviting outdoor space.
Gelato Bar
81.7 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Gelato Bar in Puerto Ayora, where creamy gelato and rich espresso await amidst the beauty of the Galápagos Islands.
La discoteca de Wilfrido
81.7 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at La discoteca de Wilfrido, Puerto Ayora's premier karaoke bar, where unforgettable memories await every night.
