Galápagos Islands
The months in gold are when the weather, the crowds and the prices work out best.
The islands are worth visiting if you want to see wildlife that lacks a natural fear of humans. Plan your trip for June, July, August, December, or January to enjoy the best weather and sea conditions. Allow at least one week to see multiple islands properly.
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Seven to ten days is the standard time required to visit the major sites.
Most visitors fly from mainland Ecuador into the airports on Baltra or San Cristobal.
You must pay the national park entrance fee in cash upon arrival at the airport.
The daily cost is high, averaging 300 USD, and you will need extra cash for park fees and tips.
What to expect daily
Your days will be structured by boat schedules or guided land tours. You spend most of your time walking on volcanic rock or snorkeling near the shore. There is very little time for sitting on a beach or relaxing at a resort.
Most visitors find themselves waking up early to beat the heat. You move from one island to another to observe different animal behaviors. Expect to be tired by the evening because the terrain is uneven and walking paths are often rocky.
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When to go
The months of June through August are cooler and the seas are often choppy. This is the prime time to see marine life that prefers colder temperatures. Bring a thick wetsuit if you plan on swimming for long periods.
December and January offer warmer water and calmer seas. It is a good time for snorkeling, but the sun is very intense. You will need high-factor sunscreen and a hat at all times during these months.
Common mistakes
Many people underestimate the strict nature of the park rules. You must stay on marked trails at all times. You cannot touch or feed any of the animals, even if they walk directly up to you.
Travelers often think they can explore the archipelago independently. Ferries between the main islands are limited and unreliable. Booking a cruise or a pre-arranged land-based package saves you from spending your limited time waiting at docks.
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The entry fee must be paid in cash at the airport.
The daily figure is an estimate and does not include flights. The exchange rate is real, and it moves once a day, not by the second.
The background
The Galápagos Islands (Spanish: Islas Galápagos) are an archipelago of volcanic islands in the Eastern Pacific, located around the equator, 485 nautical miles (898 km; 558 mi) west of the mainland of South America. They form the Galápagos Province of the Republic of Ecuador, with a population of slightly over 33,000 in 2020. The province is divided into the cantons of San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and Isabela, the three most populated islands in the chain. The Galápagos are famous for their large number of endemic species, which were studied by Charles Darwin in the 1830s and inspired his theory of evolution by means of natural selection. All of these islands are protected as part of Ecuador's Galápagos National Park and Marine Reserve. There is no firm evidence that Polynesians or the Indigenous peoples of South America reached the islands before their accidental discovery by Bishop Tomás de Berlanga in 1535. If some visitors did arrive, poor access to fresh water on the islands seems to have limited settlement. The Spanish Empire similarly ignored the islands, although during the Golden Age of Piracy, various pirates used the Galápagos as a base to raid Spanish shipping along the Pe
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Questions people ask
Do I need a cruise to see the islands?
You do not need a cruise, but staying on land limits which islands you can reach. Cruises allow access to remote areas that day boats cannot reach. Choose a land-based trip only if you are prone to seasickness.
Is it safe to drink the tap water?
The tap water is not safe for drinking. Use bottled or filtered water for both drinking and brushing your teeth. Carry a reusable bottle to reduce the amount of plastic waste you generate.
What currency should I bring?
The islands use the United States Dollar. Bring small denominations, as many local shops struggle to provide change for large bills. ATMs are limited and often run out of cash.
Can I visit without a guide?
You must be accompanied by a certified guide for most activities within the park. This is a strict requirement to protect the ecosystem. You can explore the towns on your own, but not the protected park trails.
What should I pack for the weather?
Pack light, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Even in the warmer months, a light windbreaker is useful for boat trips. Do not forget a waterproof bag for your camera gear.