Galapagos Islands discovery guide
Few places on Earth remain mostly untouched and unchanged by humans. The Galapagos’ fragile ecology is treasured and protected by the nation of Ecuador—thoughtfully limiting how visitors can interact with its resplendent wildlife. Let us transport you to this archipelago 600 miles off the coast of South America to meet a dizzying array of land and marine life. Giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, penguins, iguanas—and you.
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What to know before you go
POPULATION
The Galapagos archipelago is comprised of 13 large and six smaller islands, plus dozens of islets strewn across the Pacific. Each of these giant piles of lava—with the occasional active volcano making an appearance—boasts unique flora and fauna that’s endemic to the Galapagos. Just under 30,000 humans live in these enchanted places, along with roughly 25,000 giant tortoises and 2,000 Galapagos penguins.
CULTURAL QUICK TAKE
Ecuador’s deep reverence for the Galapagos reverberates throughout the islands, their inhabitants, and awe-struck visitors. Your naturalist guide will help you take in this Eden in a way that preserves it for generations to come.
WHAT TO GO FOR
Wildlife and nature lovers are in for an almost-out-of-this-world treat on the Galapagos. Between animal species that can only be found on these islands and the Galapagos’ lava flows, mangrove swamps, and cactus forests, this is your chance to observe a magical terrain that’s gone almost completely unchanged since its discovery in 1535. (Charles Darwin’s research on the Galapagos Islands led to the development of his groundbreaking theory of evolution through natural selection.)
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES ON TOUR
Visit giant tortoises on a preserve; snorkel with sea turtles, sea lions, and penguins; spot rare birds; and visit the Pacific’s oldest post office. We can’t think of a more postcard-worthy destination, either.
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Ecuador & Galapagos Islands Cruise
Start high in the Andes Mountains in Quito, Ecuador’s capital, before flying to the small island of Baltra in the Galapagos. From here, you’ll spend four nights aboard a small cruise ship, visiting six islands and countless birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Seas the day with our Galapagos Islands Cruises
Cruising the Galapagos is more than a trip—it’s a front-row seat to one of nature’s wildest shows. Set sail where time slows and wildlife reigns supreme. Every island unveils a new chapter in this untamed world—so turn the page.
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Your Galapagos Islands trip starts here
You could wait for inspiration to strike—or find some with a little help from our team of experts.
9 animals you’ll only spot on the Galapagos Islands
Giant tortoises may be the most famous Galapagos denizen, but the archipelago is home to even more animals you won’t see anywhere else.
The best late-summer locales to stay cool—and off the beaten path
With balmy temps hovering around 70 F, the Galapagos are an ideal getaway just a two-hour flight from Ecuador’s mainland.
Signature experiences for your memory vault. Why don’t you...
See giant tortoises on Isabela Island
Boat to the Galapagos’ largest island to admire the giant reptiles basking on the slopes of the nearby Alcedo Volcano. Follow it up with deep-sea snorkeling (if you wish) on our Ecuador & Galapagos Islands Cruise tour.
Sleep aboard the MV Galapagos Legend
Float from island to island on this five-deck luxury expedition vessel. You’ll enjoy star-gazing and sunbathing decks, a swimming pool, and restful rooms while on our Ecuador & Peru: The Galapagos, Cuzco & Machu Picchu tour.
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Snorkel with sea lions, sea turtles, and penguins
Stop at Espinosa Point, the only visitor access to Fernandina Island—a pristine jet-black lava mass. From here, board a dinghy to Vicente Roca Point to snorkel alongside friendly marine life on our Ecuador & Galapagos Islands Cruise tour.
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Visit the world’s most unusual post office
Make your way to an empty cask placed on Floreana Island in 1793, a makeshift post office for passing whalers sending letters back home. This tradition is carried on by visitors. See it on our Ecuador & Galapagos Cruise: San Cristobal to Santa Cruz.
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