Top sights, highlights, and exclusive tips by Travel Experts
- Destinations
- South America
- Ecuador
- Galapagos Islands
Plan a dream vacation to the enchanting Galapagos Islands with Tourlane. At the southern tip of the Galapagos is the town of Puerto Ayora, which serves as the primary base for explorers doing tours of the Galapagos. With Tourlane, we make it possible for you to plan every element of your Galapagos Islands vacation in advance, all in one place. Speak to one of our local Travel Experts, who’ll gladly book your flights, accommodations, transfers, guides, and tours of the Galapagos.
1. Tortuga BayÂ
2. Charles Darwin Research StationÂ
3. Santa Cruz HighlandsÂ
4. South Plaza IslandÂ
5. Bartolome IslandÂ
6. North Seymour IslandÂ
7. Santa Fe IslandÂ
8. Floreana Island
9. Dragon Hill
1. Tortuga Bay
If you’re passionate about wildlife, then Tortuga Bay will be a feast for the eyes during your Galapagos Islands vacation. A walking path provides a delightful route through this coastal bay as you look out in search of the rich marine life. A swim, snorkel, or dive will bring you closer to the numerous sea iguanas, so don’t miss out on one of these activities.
2. Charles Darwin Research Station
Charles Darwin Research Station is a foundation focused on sustainability and conservation of the rich biodiversity found on the islands. Here, witness the various stages of the Galapagos Tortoise as it grows to six feet in length and 500 pounds in weight. This educational experience will further enhance your Puerto Ayora tour as you see firsthand the remarkable work that goes into ensuring wildlife inhabitants remain protected.Â
3. Santa Cruz Highlands
If you’re into hiking, head inland towards a peak altitude of 2,835 feet when entering the Santa Cruz Highlands. Due to its climate, this area attracts a variety of animals such as the Giant Galapagos Tortoise. No visit to the Galapgos Islands is complete without heading to El Chato Ranch—prepare to be amazed by all that it is you find when entering these highlands.
4. Â South Plaza Islands
Mustard colored Iguanas (largest on-land population), prickly pear cacti, and blood red vegetation make South Plaza Islands one of the most unspoiled parts of the country. Colonies of sea lions and countless bird species, as well as quirky rock formations, all await you here.
5. Bartolome Islands
Serene blue shades of waters surround this eastern volcanic islet. Take a short hike and look out across a horizon riddled with the sensational looking humps of neighboring islands. Pinnacle Rock presents a rock formation formed from magma. Enjoy a swim or snorkel in this wonderland of skylines and bubbling marine life.  Â
6. North Seymour Island
If you’re into birdwatching, head to North Seymour Island. This sparsely populated island is covered with low bushes and plants such as Palo Santo and Opuntia (prickly pear) and a huge local bird population, including blue footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, as well as sea lions and iguanas.
7. Santa Fe Island
The blue lagoon once served as an anchoring point, and the name of the island was actually given by an admiral. The land iguana here is endemic, as is the rice rat, and several other species that have now colonized the island. If you’re looking to dive or snorkel, this is a great place to visit.
8. Floreana Island
Floreana Island was named after Ecuador’s first president, Juan Jose Flores, during the island’s colonization. Marine iguanas, giant turtles, sea lions, coupled with the sense of isolation make you feel as though you’ve left the urban world far behind. Fun fact: the first post office of the Archipelago’s was opened here. Â
9. Dragon Hill
Join one of the longest trails found anywhere in the Galápagos and journey through the desert-like landscape. If you’re lucky, you may be able to spot a flamingo feeding from a saltwater lagoon. Look up and breathe in the coastal air of this magnificent landscape during your Puerto Ayora tour.
Where are the Galapagos Islands Located?
The Galapagos Islands are situated approximately 600 miles off the west coast of Ecuador. Flight time is two and half hours, and there are direct flights to the cities of Guayaquil and Quito. There are no direct flights from the Galapagos Islands to the USA.
 Why Should I Visit the Galapagos Islands?Â
The Galapagos Islands are the perfect destination for nature lovers, as they are an unspoiled paradise that enjoy a great deal of protection. If you want to get up close and personal with an unparalleled diversity of animal, fish, and plant species, then this UNESCO World Heritage Center is perfect for you.Â
How Much is a Vacation to the Galapagos Islands?
The cost of a Galapagos Islands vacation depends on your travel tastes and preferences. For example, your choice about what kind of accommodation to stay in (luxury hotel, standard hotel, vacation apartment), and your choice about how many tours to take while on vacation will greatly affect the overall price. Â
Which Galapagos Islands Should I Visit?Â
The Galapagos comprises more than 13 islands. The island with the most hotels, eateries, and markets is Santa Cruz, which is home to Puerto Ayora, the most populous town in the Galapagos. San Cristóbal Island is the second most populous island, and has a nice balance between vibrant public life and peaceful nature. Floreana Island is a true paradise for nature lovers, and is utterly secluded.Â
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