There are few places on the planet as untouched by time as the Galápagos Islands. Visit the remote islands 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador today and you'll experience them much the way Charles Darwin first did when he first arrived back in 1835.
The natural world thrives here in its secluded bubble, and the animals, who live in island-specific isolation, are unfazed by outside predators. That means, you’ll see “strange creatures that evolved without any experience with humans, making them oblivious to visitors,” says Emma Ridley, Galápagos Field Staff Manager for Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic.
The snorkeling here is extraordinary and you’ll encounter some amazing sea life: enormous schools of fish, playful sea lions, giant sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, and even tiny penguins. On land, you’ll see some of the world’s most unique birds, like blue-footed boobies, plus ancient Galápagos tortoises, and colorful iguanas.
These animals are just a few of the 9,000 species that call this very special archipelago home. Since the wildlife is active all year-round and the climate is always temperate, the best time to visit the Galápagos, is really anytime!
What are the Best Islands to Visit in Galápagos?
Travelers can visit 19 different islands in the archipelago, each one boasting endemic wildlife and unique sights. Keep in mind that the Galápagos, which was inscribed as the first UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978, is heavily protected by the national parks division of Ecuador and the majority of islands require you to explore with a licensed guide in a small group.
Only four islands allow overnight visitors, making a Galápagos cruise the ideal way to be able to explore multiple islands and see the fascinating diversity of life and landscapes. Ahead, discover everything you need to know about some of the must-see Galápagos Islands.
1. Isabela Island in the Galápagos
The largest island in the Galápagos archipelago, Isabela has stellar wildlife as well as landscapes with a unique topography defined by six giant volcanoes. Start a visit here by heading to the Sierra Negra Volcano for breathtaking vistas and to see unique lava formations. You can physically cross the equator at Volcán Ecuador, the northernmost of Isabela’s volcanic mountains.
Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and Herman Melville at Tagus Cove, a sheltered deep-water bay that was once a hideout for whalers and pirates. You can even spot ancient graffiti carved into the rock walls by these visitors from the past. At Punta Vincente Roca, snorkel alongside sea turtles and Galápagos penguins (the only warm water penguins in the world) who live along the equator.
Another popular activity here is kayaking, both solo and tandem, which provides the perfect vantage point to spot sea life in the Pacific waters as well as wildlife on the shore.
You should visit Isabela Island
- If you want a large array of animal sightings and habitats.
You should skip Isabela Island
- This is one of the most popular islands to visit, so you may see other visitors, unlike other islands. If you want your group to be the only ones on the island, you may want to skip this.
What wildlife is on Isabela Island?
- The largest island in the archipelago, Isabela is one of the best places to spot whales and dolphins, the giant ocean sunfish, and feeding marine iguanas.
- You can also expect to see giant tortoises in high elevation areas, lava lizards (who love the lava fields on the island), as well as flightless cormorants, Galápagos fur seals, and Galápagos penguins, all endemic species who inhabit the rocky shorelines.
Can you stay on Isabela Island?
- Yes, you can stay on Isabela; it’s one of just four inhabited islands in the Galápagos and offers limited hotel accommodations for visitors on the southern tip at Puerto Villamil.
2. San Cristóbal Galápagos Island
San Cristóbal is another one of the four inhabited islands in the Galápagos and the location of one of the two main airports in the islands (the other is located in Baltra.) The quiet town of Baquerizo Moreno, with one of the largest sea lion populations, provides a taste of culture and history. This easternmost island also has views of iconic Kicker Rock (which resembles a large boot ready to “kick”), and offers a mix of stunning white beaches, lush inland areas, and a large bird population.
At Punta Pitt, you’ll see two species of frigatebirds (aptly called, “great” and “magnificent”). Plus, this is the best place to see all three species of the archipelago’s famed boobies—blue- footed, red-footed, and Nazca—in the same place.
Other wildlife to keep an eye out for here include the endemic mockingbird and the lava lizard, which you’ll spot on the black volcanic rocks here. There’s also plenty of sea lions lounging on Cerro Brujo’s lovely, white-sand beach (a great place to sun, swim, and snorkel) as well as on benches right in the center of town.
You should visit San Cristóbal Galápagos Island
- If you’re an avid birder looking to check several species off your list, this is the spot to see many of the Galápagos’ avian highlights, including three types of boobies.
You should skip San Cristóbal Galápagos Island
- If you prefer small, uninhabited islands or don't want to see other travelers.
What wildlife is on San Cristóbal Galápagos Island?
- Wildlife lovers will find much to excite them here in the way of birdlife, including Nazca boobies and the endemic mockingbird.
- This is another great place to see the Galápagos’ lava lizard, which makes its home on the easternmost part of San Cristóbal Island. Sea lions abound here, too (they’re always a big hit for kids on a Galápagos family vacation.)
Can you stay on San Cristóbal Island?
- Yes, travelers will find hotels on San Cristóbal, which is another one of the inhabited islands.
3. Santa Cruz Island
Welcome to Santa Cruz, the central hub of the Galápagos Islands, where you’ll find everything from gift shops and restaurants to sea lions and iguanas. Most notably, though, this is where you can visit the famed Charles Darwin Research Station plus, meet giant tortoises in their natural habitat.
Begin with a journey up to the verdant jungle highlands where giant Galápagos tortoises, which can weigh up to 500 pounds, roam wild at local ranches. (You may even encounter one blocking the road on the way, since these massive reptiles can pretty much hang out wherever they choose). To see marine iguanas and flamingos, head out of the highlands and down to Bachas Beach.
In Puerto Ayora, the largest town around, don’t miss the lively fish market where sea lions, frigatebirds, and pelicans congregate in hopes of snacking on any “samples” that come their way.
You should visit Santa Cruz Island
- If you want to see giant tortoises up close and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station.
You should skip Santa Cruz Island
- If you would rather spend time on the beach.
What wildlife is on Santa Cruz?
- First and foremost, you’ll be able to see giant Galápagos tortoises here.
- Other notable animals include marine iguanas, coral-hued flamingos, sea lions, and Sally Lightfoot crabs
Can you stay on Santa Cruz Island?
- Yes, you can stay on Santa Cruz; it’s one of only a handful of islands in the Galápagos with accommodations for visitors.
4. Baltra Island
Although Baltra isn’t very large at just 8 square miles, it’s home to Seymour Airport, the main points of entry to the Galápagos where flights from Guayaquil and Quito land. (This island is also sometimes called “South Seymour.”)
Baltra is located pretty much in the center of Galápagos and is just north of Santa Cruz. Its location, combined with its flat topography, made it the pick for a U.S. airbase here in the 1940s.
Since Baltra is mostly a transit island, you won’t find any visitor sites on its mainland, but the sandy islet of Mosquera, located in the channel between Baltra and North Seymour, has a vast population of sea lions, garnet-hued Sally Lightfoot crabs, and lava gulls.
You should visit Baltra Island
- If you’re flying to the Galápagos from mainland Equator.
You should skip Baltra Island
- If you are looking for the best wildlife opportunities, this isn’t the place.
What wildlife is on Baltra Island?
- You’re sure to see plenty of sea lions, who enjoy sunning on the sand before heading to Mosquera, where they congregate in enormous herds.
- Sally Lightfoot crabs, lava gulls, and land iguanas live here as well.
Can you stay on Baltra Island?
- No visitors are allowed to stay on Baltra overnight.
5. Fernandina Island
The “newest” island in the Galápagos (it’s just 400,000 or so years old as opposed to millions of years like others in the chain), the landscape of Fernandina is unique, with sheer volcanic cliffs filled with fascinating wildlife.
One of the most active oceanic volcanoes in the world, Fernandina is not only the youngest, but also the most pristine island in Galápagos—hikes ashore will lead you across impressive, recent lava flows where you’ll be able to spot the unusual flightless cormorant, Galápagos penguins, and huge swaths of marine iguanas.
You should visit Fernandina Island
- If you want to see flightless cormorants in their natural habitat.
You should skip Fernandina Island
- If you don’t want to visit an active volcanic island (though you don't need to worry—these volcanoes are effusive and not explosive!)
What wildlife is on Fernandina Island?
- This island is home to the largest marine iguana colony in the Galápagos, plus the world’s most northerly-breeding penguin species, and the endemic flightless cormorant.
Can you stay on Fernandina Island?
- No, it is not possible to stay overnight; the national park rules require visitors to leave by 6 p.m.
6. Genovesa Island Galápagos
Remote Genovesa Island sits in the furthest northern reaches of the Galápagos. Its distinct horseshoe-shaped caldera, formed by a breached crater, creates a creates a fantastic bird habitat. Combined with the warmer tropical waters here, it’s a twitchers delight offering a life-list’s worth of ticks: worth of ticks: the world's largest colony of red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies and swallow-tailed gulls, in addition to the more elusive short-eared owls.
Go for a Zodiac ride or kayak along the cliffs of this flooded caldera to spot wildlife and suit up to snorkel among hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays. Don’t miss Prince Philip’s Steps, an 81-foot staircase that leads to incredible views and lively seabird colonies.
You should visit Genovesa Island Gálapagos
- If you are a birder, this is a must visit.
You should skip Genovesa Island Galápagos
- If you have ornithophobia (a fear of birds).
What wildlife is on Genovesa Island Galápagos?
- Genovesa has earned a reputation as the “Bird Island,” and for good reason.
- Along with the birds mentioned above, you can also spot great frigatebirds, lava gulls, storm petrels, red-billed tropicbirds, Darwin’s finches, and mockingbirds.
- In the water look for large schools of colorful parrotfish, plus fur seals and sea lions.
Can you stay on Genovesa Island Galápagos?
- No, all visitors must leave by 6 p.m. so it’s not possible to stay overnight here.
7. Española Island Galápagos
Located in the far southeastern reaches of the Galápagos, Española is one of the oldest islands in the archipelago. It's also one of the flattest islands in the archipelago with one of the lowest elevations.
Española is best known for its waved albatrosses. Every year, the entire world’s population of adult waved albatrosses return to their colony here from April to December. These majestic birds, with their wingspans reaching up to 10 feet, can be seen performing impressive courtship displays during their breeding season.
If you’re looking for a pristine white-sand beach perfect for a swim and an afternoon nap, head for Gardner Bay. For something a bit more active hike out to Punta Suarez, a rocky outcrop teeming with wildlife, including swallow-tailed gulls, sea lions, and fur seals.
You should visit Española Island
- If you want to witness a waved albatross's massive wingspan in person.
You should skip Española Island
- If you have a fear of birds, this island may not be for you.
What wildlife is on Española Island?
- In addition to the famed waved albatross which you can see seasonally, you can spot swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, and boobies all living, mating, and nesting along the dramatic cliffs of this island.
- Along with birds, expect to spot vivid green and red marine iguanas as well as sea lions.
Can you stay on Española Island?
- No, it is not possible to stay overnight, and all visitors must leave by 6 p.m.
8. Santiago Island
Santiago has been a popular island to visit for hundreds of years. When Darwin arrived at this large island in 1835 (it’s a sprawling 221-square-miles), he found that Spanish sailors were already here, mining salt from a mine that stayed active for many decades.
Today, however, you’ll find wildlife instead of wild pirates. Hike over the smooth pahoehoe lava and admire spatter cones, little miniature hornitos, and the wild riot of black lava at Sullivan Bay, the result of an eruption recorded by passing buccaneers in 1897. Snorkel and explore by kayak and Zodiac through the crystalline water surrounding Sombrero Chino.
Keep an eye peeled for the Galápagos penguin, sometimes spotted along the coast. Santiago also offers some of the best tide-pooling in the islands. Follow the path along a series of pools in search of Galápagos fur seals, marine iguanas, sea lions, and bright red Sally Lightfoot crabs at Puerto Egas.
You should visit Santiago Island
- If you want to explore smooth black lavascapes and fascinating tide pools.
You should skip Santiago Island
- If you don’t want to walk long distances
What wildlife is on Santiago Island?
- This volcanic island boasts a diverse ecosystem with marine iguanas, fur seals, and Galápagos hawks dotting its landscape.
- Visitors may spot elusive Galápagos fur seals in protected grottos or on rocky outcrops.
- Snorkelers will be delighted by the underwater world teeming with colorful fish, rays, and sea turtles.
Can you stay on Santiago Island?
- No, it is not possible to stay overnight, and all visitors must leave by 6 p.m.
9. Floreana Island
Unlike most of the smaller islands in the Galápagos whose main residents are wildlife, Floreana has a small population of humans, too (roughly 120 people).
It also has a claim to fame that delights most visitors: the famous wooden barrel “post office” where you can drop off a postcard (no stamp required) and pick up a card that’s been left behind. Look for one with an address near your hometown and hand-carry it back to the recipient, keeping up the tradition of ancient sailors that came centuries before.
Along with your postal visit, you can follow a trail past a pink-tinted lagoon to spot coral-hued flamingos wading nearby, snorkel among sea lions and massive schools of multi-hued fish, or cruise along Champion Islet by Zodiac. And be sure to keep an eye out for the endangered Floreana mockingbird.
You should visit Floreana Island
- If you want to see pink flamingos in person.
You should skip Floreana Island
- If you want to stay at a full-service resort. Although this is one of the few islands that can have overnight visitors, there are no big hotels here.
What wildlife is on Floreana Island?
- Pink flamingos are one of the main wildlife draws here.
- But that’s not all, the clear waters are also home to large numbers of sea lions who bask in the sunshine on the beach and welcome visitors with a cacophonous chorus of barks and bellows.
- The much quieter, and endangered, Floreana mockingbird dwells here as well.
Can you stay on Floreana Island?
- Yes, Floreana has a small permanent population and does have a few small bed and breakfast style properties for visitors. However, there is limited transportation to the island.
10. Bartolomé Island
A tiny island (it has an area of just half a mile) just off the east coast of Santiago Island, Bartolomé makes up for its small size with an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves, and golden sand converge. Lace up your hiking shoes for the walk up 372 steps to the summit for stunning views of Pinnacle Rock, vast lava flows at Sullivan Bay, and the white-sand beaches below. (Fun fact: Pinnacle Rock made an appearance in the popular Russell Crowe movie Master and Commander.)
Bring a wet suit and when you’ve descended, you’ll be able to snorkel offshore and possibly have the opportunity to swim with Galápagos penguins.
You should visit Bartolomé Island
- If you want to swim with penguins, it’s a must stop.
You should skip Bartolomé Island
- If you don’t want to climb steps (even for impressive views).
What wildlife is on Bartolomé Island?
- In addition to the island being home to Galápagos penguins, you can also spot herons and Galápagos hawks.
- Down at sea level, look for green sea turtles, who nest on the northern beach.
- The water here is also filled with exciting sea life including stingrays, spotted eagle rays, black-tipped and white-tipped sharks.
Can you stay on Bartolomé Island?
- No, it is not possible to stay overnight; all visitors must leave by 6 p.m.
11. North Seymour Island
Located just north of Baltra, North Seymour was formed by volcanic uplifts which created flat plateaus. According to the Galápagos Conservancy, 70 iguanas were moved here from Baltra in the 1930s to protect them from non-native predators there. Today, there’s a thriving population of these prehistoric-looking land iguanas who you’ll see feeding on cactus.
The island is a breeding ground for magnificent frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies, known for their vibrant blue feet. Visitors can observe these charismatic birds up close as they nest and raise their young. North Seymour also offers opportunities for snorkeling and exploring its secluded beaches.
You should visit North Seymour Island
- If you want to see blue-footed boobies shaking their colorful feet.
You should skip North Seymour Island
- If you want nightlife or amenities.
What wildlife is on North Seymour Island?
- In addition to land iguanas, if you follow the coastal trails you’ll spot playful Galápagos sea lions.
- Continue inland through a silvery forest of endemic palo santo trees to see breeding grounds for frigatebirds and watch blue-footed boobies dance and nest.
Can you stay on North Seymour Island?
- No, it is not possible to stay overnight, and all visitors must depart by 6 p.m.
12. South Plaza Island
Despite its very tiny size of just 75 square feet, South Plaza, an uplifted block island covered in salt-loving succulents, is filled with wildlife, starting with hordes of charismatic sea lions. There’s also a large population of land iguanas and diverse seabirds, including red-billed tropicbirds and swallow-tailed gulls, swooping along high sea cliffs.
You should visit South Plaza Island
- If you want to get an eye, and ear, full of boisterous sea lions.
You should skip South Plaza Island
- If you’re looking to take a long walk, skip this tiny island, where you’ll never go more than .05 miles in any direction.
What wildlife is on South Plaza Island?
- In addition to nearly 1,000 sea lions, you can also see a large population of land iguanas and diverse seabirds.
- Although very rare, it’s also the only place you might see a hybrid of a marine and land iguana.
Can you stay on South Plaza Island?
- No, you cannot stay on South Plaza Island, and visitors must leave by 6 p.m.
13. Santa Fé Island
The oldest island in the Galápagos, Santa Fé has the highest rate of endemism, so most of the animals, like the Santa Fé land iguana and the Galápagos hawk, can only be found here. Snorkel or kayak in the secluded cove at Barrington Bay and walk a trail that leads through the largest cactus trees in the islands.
You should visit Santa Fé Island
- If you want to hike among giant cacti and snorkel in the most beautiful, secluded cove.
You should skip Santa Fé Island
- If you’re not a fan of rats–the Santa Fé rice rat is an endemic species. (Though active mainly at night.)
What wildlife is on Santa Fé Island?
- As with almost every other island in the Galápagos, you’ll find sea lions swimming and sunning here.
- The Santa Fé land iguana is unique to the island, as is the rice rat, the Santa Fe mockingbird and the Galápagos hawk.
- Look for blue-footed boobies and Darwin’s finches, too.
Can you stay on Santa Fé Island?
- No, it is not possible to stay overnight, and all visitors must leave by 6 p.m.
Unvisited Galápagos Islands
14. Darwin Island
15. Rabida Island
16. Daphne Major
17. Isla Lobos
18. Pinzón Island
19. Pinta Island
20. Las Tintoreras Islet
21. Marchena Island
22. Wolf Island
23. Roca León Dormido
What you Need to Know About the Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos wildlife is active all year-round so it is always an ideal time to visit these magical islands. In addition to learning what makes each island unique, there’s some other information you might want to know before traveling to this special corner of the world.
Where are the Galápagos Islands?
The Galápagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean 600 miles off the western coast of Ecuador (the closest land mass). One of the world's most isolated oceanic archipelagos, all that remoteness allowed these islands to evolve into the spectacular world that's been studied and celebrated since the days of Darwin. Learn more about how to get to the Galápagos.
What Makes the Galápagos Islands Unique?
“The Galápagos Islands are a very special place,” says Ridely. “These are the only oceanic islands with 90% of their original flora and fauna still intact.”
Plus, she adds, there is a “unique mix of animals here, strange creatures that evolved without any experience with humans. Meaning that everything from fish to turtles to sea lions are oblivious to visiting humans, you can even walk up to nesting birds without alarming them.”
How Many Islands are in the Galápagos?
There are 13 major islands and seven smaller ones. However, there are an additional 107 that are simply rocky islets, for a grand total of 127 islands.
Which Galápagos Islands can you Stay on?
There are four inhabited islands in the archipelago—Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, and Floreana. The latter, however, has very limited options for overnight visitors.
The Galápagos Islands promise unforgettable adventures for the intrepid traveler. While it is far-flung and can be a more costly voyage, the rewards—spectacular landscapes, rare wildlife, and a glimpse into the evolutionary wonders of our planet—are undoubtedly worth the journey.
