{"id":876320,"date":"2025-04-02T05:16:47","date_gmt":"2025-04-02T04:16:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/?p=876320"},"modified":"2025-05-08T04:42:29","modified_gmt":"2025-05-08T03:42:29","slug":"20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/","title":{"rendered":"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Scattered over 60,000km\u00b2 off the coast of <\/span>Ecuador<\/span><\/a>, the <\/span>Gal\u00e1pagos Islands<\/span><\/a> are home to such unique ecosystems they inspired Charles Darwin\u2019s <\/span>Theory of Evolution<\/span><\/a>. This iconic marine wilderness consists of hundreds of small islets and 13 major islands, with the most popular being Santa Cruz, Isabela, San Crist\u00f3bal, Santa Fe, Espa\u00f1ola, Santiago, Floreana, Genovesa and Fernandina. Get your bearings with <\/span>this handy map<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

As this vast archipelago is near the equator, the climate is fairly consistent. And although there are two main seasons \u2013 <\/span>December to May<\/span><\/b> is the hot and <\/span>rainy season<\/span><\/b>, while <\/span>June to November<\/span><\/b> is the cooler, <\/span>dry season<\/span><\/b> \u2013 the islands can be enjoyed all year round. Here\u2019s what to expect temperature-wise:\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Month<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Air\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Sea\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Weather overview<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

January<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

25-31\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

26\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Warm and humid, occasional rain<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

February<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

25-31\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

26\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Warm and rainy\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

March<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

25-31\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

26\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Hot and humid, light showers<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

April<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

25-30\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

27\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Slightly drier, warm and pleasant<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

May<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

24-30\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

27\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Dry, cooler, and a little breezy<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

June<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

23-29\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

25\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Cooler and drier, breezy<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

July<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

22-28\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

25\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Cool, breezy and dry<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

August<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

22-28\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

24\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Dry and cooler, high winds<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

September<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

22-27\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

24\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Cool, low rainfall, calm weather<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

October<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

23-28\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

25\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Slightly warmer, low rainfall<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

November<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

24-30\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

26\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Warm and dry, calm sea conditions\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

December<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

25-31\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

26\u00b0C<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td>

Warm, light rain and calm seas<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>

Whenever you visit this World Heritage-listed region, you\u2019ll experience extraordinary wildlife sightings, walk among still-forming volcanic landscapes and enjoy every outdoor adventure under the Ecuadorian sun. Here are 20 unmissable highlights to level up your Gal\u00e1pagos holiday.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
Blue footed boobies<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

Must-see natural wonders<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

With their lava flows and tubes, vast craters, and active volcanoes, the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands tell the ongoing story of Earth\u2019s evolution, of geology in flux. And while you\u2019ll find epic panoramas wherever you venture, you won\u2019t want to miss these\u2026<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

1. Bartolom\u00e9 Island \u2013 Iconic viewpoints & volcanic landscapes<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Off <\/span>Santiago Island<\/span><\/a> and covering just over a square kilometre, <\/span>Bartolom\u00e9 Island<\/span><\/a> is one of the Gal\u00e1pagos\u2019 most recognisable landmarks thanks to its striking geological feature, <\/span>Pinnacle Rock<\/span><\/b>: a volcanic plug that towers over the ocean. A short, steep, but rewarding hike takes you to the island\u2019s highest point and back in about 45 minutes, winding through lava formations for expansive views over Bartolom\u00e9 and its surroundings.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

2. Tortuga Bay \u2013 A stunning beach & epic marine life<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

A 40-minute walk from the <\/span>Puerto Ayora<\/span><\/b> dock on Santa Cruz Island, this 1.5 km beach feels raw, remote, and teeming with life. Turquoise waters, a white-sand beach, and mangroves set the scene for memorable wildlife watching. Nesting sea turtles, rays, marine iguanas, sea lions, flamingos, herons, and Sally Lightfoot crabs are among the most regularly sighted creatures here.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

3. Las Grietas \u2013 Swim in a natural lava crack lagoon<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Also, less than an hour\u2019s hike from Puerto Ayora, <\/span>Las Grietas<\/span><\/b> is a narrow, saltwater swimming hole wedged between volcanic cliffs, formed when lava flowed through the area and eroded the rocks to create deep fissures. Flanked by imposing rock walls, the lagoon is a peaceful and protected place to float on your back and look up for the soaring frigatebirds that frequent the area.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

4. Sierra Negra Volcano \u2013 Hike one of the world\u2019s largest craters<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

With its colossal 10 km diameter, Isabela\u2019s Sierra Negra shield volcano was last active in 2018, making it an awe-inspiring location to experience the raw power of nature. If you\u2019re up for a strenuous four to six-hour trek, stretch your legs on the <\/span>12 km hiking trail<\/span><\/b> to the crater\u2019s rim, where every step is rewarded with spectacular views of the caldera and beyond.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Spend five incredible days exploring aboard MV Gal\u00e1pagos Legend, which partners with local conservation organisations to Make Travel Matter. \u00a0<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
Bartolom\u00e9 Island<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

Best wildlife encounters <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

The islands\u2019 diverse ecosystems support some 9,000 species, many of them endemic. For the most part, the animals have very little fear of humans, so there are strict wildlife interaction rules to protect them. Only officially authorised guides can lead tours, while visitors must always stay on designated paths, maintain a distance of at least 2 metres from animals and never touch, feed or disturb them. Learn more about Gal\u00e1pagos do\u2019s and don\u2019ts <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

5. Spot blue-footed boobies & frigatebirds<\/span><\/b><\/h3>

For twitchers, the archipelago has 180 bird species to tick off the list \u2013 including the coveted blue-footed booby, which gets its turquoise trotters from the nutrients in its fish-rich diet and is particularly abundant around <\/span>North Seymour<\/span><\/a>, Isabela, and Santa Cruz. Frigatebirds, known for their distinctive red throat pouches (also known as gulars), are another highlight, often spotted soaring over Genovesa, North Seymour, and Floreana. Gal\u00e1pagos <\/span>penguins, finches, and flightless cormorants <\/span><\/b>are also must-sees.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

6. Visit a giant tortoise reserve<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Of all the islands\u2019 creatures great and small, few are as revered as their endangered namesake, the Gal\u00e1pagos giant tortoise \u2013 and there are at least 25,000 of them across the archipelago. Visiting <\/span>El Chato<\/span>\u202fon\u202fSanta Cruz\u202fis an engaging way to <\/span>Make Travel Matter<\/span><\/a> and support their conservation. Located in the highlands near Puerto Ayora, the reserve is home to approximately 200 tortoises that thrive and roam freely in a lush, forested environment.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

7. Snorkel with sea lions, sharks, and turtles<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Encounters with sea lions are an unexpected highlight for many visitors. Numbering around 50,000, they\u2019re the most abundant marine mammal in the area, and you\u2019ll often see them sleeping on the beaches, swimming close to shore, and approaching snorkellers like playful puppies. Snorkelling with placid hammerheads,\u202fwhitetip reef sharks, and green sea turtles is also a highlight, with <\/span>San Crist\u00f3bal\u2019s<\/span><\/a> Devil\u2019s Crown<\/span><\/b>\u202fand <\/span>Kicker Rock<\/span><\/b>, and <\/span>Wolf<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Darwin Islands <\/span><\/a>all offering excellent opportunities.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

8. See marine iguanas up close\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

The only lizards that have adapted to ocean life, Gal\u00e1pagos marine iguanas dive into the shallows to tuck into ocean algae, so you may see them while snorkelling. The best places to do that are off Isabela, <\/span>Fernandina<\/span><\/a>, and Santa Cruz; it\u2019s worth noting that those found on Isabela and Fernandina are larger and have unique colour variations.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Searching for a Gal\u00e1pagos holiday deal? Book any Adventure World<\/a> South or Central American itinerary by 31 May 2025 to save AU$500\/NZ$550 per couple. Call our Destination Experts on 1300 363 055 in Australia or 0800 238 368 in New Zealand or for details.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
Marine iguana and red rock crabs<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

Adventure & outdoor activities<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Active experiences bring surprising perspectives to deepen your Gal\u00e1pagos immersion.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

9. Kayak or paddleboard along the coast<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

With so many picturesque islands and islets flanked by calm, clear waters that remain balmy year-round, paddling in the Gal\u00e1pagos is epic. Many cruises host their own expert-guided kayaking and paddleboarding excursions, which takes the guesswork out of understanding each area\u2019s (very variable) currents. While there are countless locations to explore, keep an eye out for <\/span>Sombrero Chino <\/span><\/b>\u2013 where you can paddleboard or kayak around a large conical rock formation under the watchful gaze of sea lions, penguins, Gal\u00e1pagos hawks and marine iguanas \u2013 as well as <\/span>Gardner Bay<\/span><\/b>, Tortuga Bay, and Floreana.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

10. Surf at San Crist\u00f3bal or Isabela Island<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

San Crist\u00f3bal\u202fand\u202fIsabela are two of the best places in the world to surf, with uncrowded breaks, consistent waves and beautifully distracting landscapes. On <\/span>San Crist\u00f3bal<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Tongo Reef<\/span><\/b>\u202fand <\/span>La Lober\u00eda <\/span><\/b>have ideal conditions for beginners, while the bigger swells of <\/span>Manglecito <\/span><\/b>and <\/span>Punta Carola <\/span><\/b>are magnets for the more advanced. On <\/span>Isabela<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>El Muelle <\/span><\/b>and <\/span>Punta de Albemarle<\/span><\/b> cater to intermediate and experienced board-riders, with powerful, consistently sizeable waves from December to May.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

11. Scuba dive at Kicker Rock and Gordon Rocks<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Both\u202fsites offer exceptional diving and stellar encounters with some of the Gal\u00e1pagos\u2019 400-plus marine species. <\/span>Kicker Rock <\/span><\/b>lies off <\/span>San Crist\u00f3bal,<\/span><\/a> and its underwater topography features deep channels, lava formations, narrow passages, steep walls, and arches. Even though there are strong currents, the visibility is outstanding for up to 30m, and the area is known for its sharks, rays, turtles and\u202fcolourful fish. Meanwhile, Santa Cruz\u2019s <\/span>Gordon Rocks<\/span><\/b> site is renowned for its large schools of hammerheads and, if you\u2019re lucky, also whale sharks from June to November.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

12. Explore lava tunnels on Santa Cruz<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Back on <\/span>Santa Cruz\u2019s<\/span><\/a> terra firma, a network of lava tubes invites you to literally step inside the island\u2019s evolution, particularly in the highlands near Santa Rosa and <\/span>El Chato<\/span><\/b>. These geological wonders formed when molten lava continued to flow beneath the cooling surface, creating tunnels tall and wide enough to walk through. Some lava tubes are also open for guided tours, with one of the most accessible being the <\/span>Tunnel de Lava<\/span><\/b>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Set sail through the central Gal\u00e1pagos aboard the luxury catamaran, Endemic<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
Kayaking with Endemic<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

Cultural & local experiences<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

While the spotlight shines brightest on the natural attractions, the islands have a permanent population of\u202faround 33,000 people, so there are plenty of opportunities to meet the locals and learn more about their home.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

13. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Near Puerto Ayora, this lauded <\/span>scientific facility <\/span><\/a>is a fascinating spot to Make Travel Matter by delving deeper into the Gal\u00e1pagos\u2019 natural history, local conservation efforts, and the islands\u2019 sustainable management. Preserving the giant tortoise is one of its key objectives, so it\u2019s also a good place to discover its pioneering breeding and rehabilitation program. The station also has a botanical garden and highlights the key species that informed Darwin\u2019s <\/span>theory of natural selection<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

14. Stroll through the\u202fPuerto Ayora fish market\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Open from around 6am each day on <\/span>Santa Cruz<\/span><\/a>, the <\/span>Puerto Ayora fish market<\/span><\/b> is a hive of activity as local fishermen peddle their freshly caught tuna,\u202fmackerel,\u202fsnapper,\u202fsea bass, and\u202flobster, reflecting the archipelago\u2019s rich marine biodiversity. After wandering around and soaking up the buzz (and keeping an eye out for the sea lions, iguanas and pelicans angling for freebies), you can taste their wares at casual restaurants within walking distance of the market.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

15. Try freshly caught seafood & local specialties<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Whether you\u2019re dining near the Puerto Ayora Fish Market or in standout Isabela restaurants like <\/span>Maestro De Casa<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>El Cafetal<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Gracias Madre Gal\u00e1pagos<\/span><\/a>, the islands serve a smorgasbord of authentic dining options. Don\u2019t miss signature local dishes like <\/span>ceviche<\/span><\/b> (fresh fish marinated in citrus); <\/span>encocado de pescado<\/span><\/b> (coconut fish stew); <\/span>encebollado<\/span><\/b> (fish and onion stew); <\/span>arroz marinero<\/span><\/b> (seafood rice); <\/span>seco<\/span><\/b> (stew of goat, chicken, lamb or beef), or <\/span>lobster<\/span><\/b> served grilled or stewed.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

16. Explore local towns & experience island life<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

If you\u2019re cruising, the main port towns you\u2019ll visit are\u202fPuerto Ayora\u202f(<\/span>Santa Cruz Island<\/span><\/a>),\u202fPuerto Baquerizo Moreno\u202f(<\/span>San Crist\u00f3bal Island<\/span><\/a>), and Puerto Villamil\u202f(<\/span>Isabela Island<\/span><\/a>). Each has its own appeal: lively <\/span>Puerto Ayora<\/span><\/b> is the gateway to giant tortoise experiences, lava tube walks and the Charles Darwin Research Station. Laid-back Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is the archipelago\u2019s capital and home to the San Crist\u00f3bal Interpretation Centre, where you can delve deeper into the natural history, Darwin\u2019s discoveries, and local Indigenous cultures. Further afield, <\/span>Puerto Villamil<\/span><\/b> is relaxed and remote with sandy beaches, flamingo-filled lagoons and impressive eateries.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Explore Ecuador\u2019s capital, Quito, then cruise the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands\u202faboard the eco-friendly catamaran, MC Treasure<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
Charles Darwin Research Center<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

Unique & off-the-beaten-path destinations<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Just being in the Gal\u00e1pagos is probably enough to make you feel completely removed from the everyday \u2013\u202fafter all, it\u2019s not every day you\u2019re 1000km off the coast of Ecuador in the eastern Pacific Ocean! But if you\u2019re keen on even lesser-known experiences, add these gems to your itinerary\u2026<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

17. Walk the historic Wall of Tears<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Alternatively known <\/span>as <\/span>El Muro de las L\u00e1grimas<\/span><\/b>,<\/span> this <\/span>lava-stone wall<\/span> was built <\/span>by <\/span>prisoners forced into labour <\/span>from <\/span>1945-1959<\/span>, <\/span>when <\/span>Isabela Island<\/span><\/a> housed a penal colony. It\u2019s said the wall gets its name from the pain the prisoners experienced when placing each stone by hand, with the conditions so miserable and dangerous that thousands lost their lives. Today, the wall serves as a place to commemorate a dark chapter in the islands\u2019 history, and you can <\/span>hike along its scenic trail<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

18. Discover Los Tuneles on a snorkelling tour<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Also on <\/span>Isabela Island,<\/span><\/a> Los Tuneles<\/span><\/b> is an excellent site to strap on a snorkel and discover surreal underwater scenery, featuring spectacular arches and lava tunnels filled with seahorses, iguanas, penguins, manta rays, turtles, and colourful fish. The site is fairly calm and shallow with great visibility, making it a hit with both experienced snorkellers and beginners.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

19. Watch the sunset with sea lions at Playa Lober\u00eda<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Facing west for scenic sundowners and home to a large population of\u202fsea lions, the sandy beach of <\/span>Playa Lober\u00eda<\/span><\/b> (<\/span>San Crist\u00f3bal Island<\/span><\/a>) is a spectacular place to farewell the day and watch these playful pinnipeds haul out. Plus, it\u2019s just 15 minutes from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

20. Explore the remote Espa\u00f1ola Island<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

The archipelago\u2019s oldest and southernmost <\/span>island<\/span><\/a> is known for its Espa\u00f1ola land iguanas, colourful\u202fmarine iguanas, Gal\u00e1pagos hawks, and waved albatrosses. For a closer look at these critically endangered beauties, as well as the island\u2019s lava fields, diverse ecosystems and blowhole, lace up your hiking boots for the 2.5 km <\/span>Punta Suarez<\/span><\/b> trail.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Venture deep into the southeastern Gal\u00e1pagos aboard the luxe expedition yacht, La Pinta<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
Galapagos sea lion on San Cristobal<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

Your frequently asked Gal\u00e1pagos Islands questions, answered<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Three things to know before you go\u2026<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Can you explore independently?<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>

Yes, you can explore the\u202fGal\u00e1pagos\u202findependently, but there are restrictions and permit requirements. All visitors must pay a National Park entrance fee, and certain activities, like diving or visiting restricted islands, may require additional special permits or licensed guides. The main advantage of travelling independently is that you can create your own schedule, but as some islands and activities are only accessible via authorised cruises and guided tours, you might not be able to do everything on your wish list. For details, visit the official Gal\u00e1pagos National Park <\/span>website<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

What\u2019s better, cruising by catamaran or on a small expedition ship cruise?<\/span><\/b> \u00a0<\/h3>

Both have their advantages. Cruising by catamaran is intimate with just <\/span>10-20 passengers<\/span><\/b>, there\u2019s a little more flexibility, and you can access places larger vessels can\u2019t reach. By comparison, small expedition ships carry <\/span>up to 200 passengers,<\/span><\/b> so you\u2019ll meet like-minded passengers and access a broader range of onboard amenities, such as spas, gyms and lounges.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

How many days should you spend in the Gal\u00e1pagos?<\/span><\/b><\/h3>

For a well-rounded Gal\u00e1pagos experience, plan for at least five days, but if possible, aim for a week or two. A <\/span>five-day trip<\/span><\/b> will cover the central islands like Santa Cruz and Santiago, while <\/span>seven to 14 days<\/span><\/b> will get you out to the more remote spots like Floreana, Espa\u00f1ola and San Crist\u00f3bal.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t\tBook your ultimate Gal\u00e1pagos Islands adventure today\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tVisit Adventure World online to explore our extraordinary Gal\u00e1pagos Islands and Ecuador itineraries, or call our Destination Experts on 1300 363 055 in Australia and 0800 238 368 in New Zealand for bespoke journeys tailored to your interests.\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\tContact us\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Scattered over 60,000km\u00b2 off the coast of Ecuador, the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands are home to such unique ecosystems they inspired Charles Darwin\u2019s Theory of Evolution. This iconic marine wilderness consists of hundreds of small islets and 13 major islands, with the most popular being Santa Cruz, Isabela, San Crist\u00f3bal, Santa Fe, Espa\u00f1ola, Santiago, Floreana, Genovesa and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":92,"featured_media":876327,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_oasis_is_in_workflow":0,"_oasis_original":0,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":null,"ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":null,"stick-header-meta":null,"header-above-stick-meta":null,"header-main-stick-meta":null,"header-below-stick-meta":null,"astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[22934],"tags":[23045,23063],"class_list":["post-876320","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-guide","tag-cruise","tag-cruise-expedition","countries-ecuador","regions-galapagos-islands"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nYour ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Whether you\u2019re keen to explore with land-based adventures or to set sail on an cruise, here\u2019s everything you need to know about the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Whether you\u2019re keen to explore with land-based adventures or to set sail on an cruise, here\u2019s everything you need to know about the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Adventure World\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/AdventureWorldTravel\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-04-02T04:16:47+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-05-08T03:42:29+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1920\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1280\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Rachelle Mackintosh\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Rachelle Mackintosh\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"12 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Rachelle Mackintosh\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/4be7e781f8ce68670b3e75e00741b27b\"},\"headline\":\"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-04-02T04:16:47+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-05-08T03:42:29+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2530,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adventureworld.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/04\\\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"Cruise\",\"Cruise Expedition\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Travel Guides\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/\",\"name\":\"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adventureworld.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/04\\\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-04-02T04:16:47+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-05-08T03:42:29+00:00\",\"description\":\"Whether you\u2019re keen to explore with land-based adventures or to set sail on an cruise, here\u2019s everything you need to know about the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adventureworld.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/04\\\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adventureworld.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/04\\\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg\",\"width\":1920,\"height\":1280},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adventureworld.com\\\/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"Adventure World\",\"description\":\"Travel articles, insights and stories from Adventure World\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Adventure World\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adventureworld.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/12\\\/cropped-AW-Logo-Green.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adventureworld.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/12\\\/cropped-AW-Logo-Green.png\",\"width\":581,\"height\":135,\"caption\":\"Adventure World\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/AdventureWorldTravel\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/awtravel\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/au.linkedin.com\\\/company\\\/adventureworldtravel\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/4be7e781f8ce68670b3e75e00741b27b\",\"name\":\"Rachelle Mackintosh\",\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/faunographic.com\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/faunographic\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/in\\\/rachelle-mackintosh-331a269\\\/\"],\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adventureworld.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/rachellemackintosh\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands","description":"Whether you\u2019re keen to explore with land-based adventures or to set sail on an cruise, here\u2019s everything you need to know about the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands","og_description":"Whether you\u2019re keen to explore with land-based adventures or to set sail on an cruise, here\u2019s everything you need to know about the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands.","og_url":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/","og_site_name":"Adventure World","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/AdventureWorldTravel\/","article_published_time":"2025-04-02T04:16:47+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-05-08T03:42:29+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1920,"height":1280,"url":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Rachelle Mackintosh","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Rachelle Mackintosh","Estimated reading time":"12 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/"},"author":{"name":"Rachelle Mackintosh","@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/4be7e781f8ce68670b3e75e00741b27b"},"headline":"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands","datePublished":"2025-04-02T04:16:47+00:00","dateModified":"2025-05-08T03:42:29+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/"},"wordCount":2530,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg","keywords":["Cruise","Cruise Expedition"],"articleSection":["Travel Guides"],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/","url":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/","name":"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg","datePublished":"2025-04-02T04:16:47+00:00","dateModified":"2025-05-08T03:42:29+00:00","description":"Whether you\u2019re keen to explore with land-based adventures or to set sail on an cruise, here\u2019s everything you need to know about the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-GB","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Ecuador-Galpagos-Islands-Galapagos-sea-lion-swimming-at-Guy-Fawkes-Islets-.jpg","width":1920,"height":1280},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/20-best-things-to-do-in-the-galapagos-islands\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Your ultimate guide: 20 best things to do in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/","name":"Adventure World","description":"Travel articles, insights and stories from Adventure World","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/#organization","name":"Adventure World","url":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/cropped-AW-Logo-Green.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/cropped-AW-Logo-Green.png","width":581,"height":135,"caption":"Adventure World"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/AdventureWorldTravel\/","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/awtravel\/","https:\/\/au.linkedin.com\/company\/adventureworldtravel"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/adventureworldblog.kinsta.cloud\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/4be7e781f8ce68670b3e75e00741b27b","name":"Rachelle Mackintosh","sameAs":["https:\/\/faunographic.com\/","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/faunographic","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/rachelle-mackintosh-331a269\/"],"url":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/author\/rachellemackintosh\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/876320","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/92"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=876320"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/876320\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/876327"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=876320"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=876320"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=876320"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}