The 9 Best Things to Do in the Galápagos Islands

There’s an incredible array of things to do in the Galápagos Islands, from unforgettable wildlife encounters and safaris to stargazing and panoramic hikes. This archipelago, set around 600 miles (1,000 kilometres) from mainland Ecuador, is legendary for its unique animal species and remote wilderness – a combination that creates endless options for outdoor activities. 

Many of the most well-known Galápagos Islands attractions can be elevated by opting for private guides or bespoke boat trips. Our favourite activities are those that blend fully personalised and singular experiences (where else can you swim with both sea lions and penguins?) with a strong commitment to minimising environmental impact.

The sea lions of the Galápagos are some of the friendliest animals you’ll ever encounter. Although we never recommend approaching animals in the wild, these particular creatures are known for their curiosity, and will often swim in circles around snorkellers as if inviting them to play.

You can also spot sea lions above the surface, sunbathing on rocks or hanging around the local fish market in the hope of receiving a treat. Adult male sea lions can weigh up to 250 kilograms (550 pounds), but keep an eye out for the much smaller pups, who are especially cute.

This archipelago is the only place in the world where marine iguanas live, and seeing them in the wild is definitely one of the Galápagos’ essential experiences. As their name suggests, these reptiles spend part of their time in the water searching for algae to feed on. You can spot them both underwater and on land, where they hang out on beaches and rocky coastlines.

Española Island has an especially large population of marine iguanas, making it one of the best places to see them. The subspecies here is known as the ‘Christmas iguana’ due to the bright red and green hues that males take on in the breeding season (December–March).

Located on the island of Santa Cruz, Tortuga Bay is among the Galápagos’ best spots for a relaxing beach day. Accessible either by boat or a short walk through the forest, it consists of a long stretch of white sand where you can soak up the sun, go for a swim or even take a surf lesson.

Tortuga Bay is also known for its abundance of marine iguanas, which like to sunbathe on the sand, and of course the sea turtles that it’s named after. At the far end of the beach you’ll find calm waters that are perfect for snorkelling.

Floreana is one of the smaller and more isolated islands in the Galápagos, with a population of only a hundred people or so. These factors make it an especially great spot for stargazing, as there’s very low light pollution to obscure the night sky.

You can visit Floreana Island on a private boat trip after dark to see the stars. That said, we also recommend exploring it in daylight to learn about its fascinating history and visit the famous Post Office Bay, where travellers still leave letters to be retrieved and hand-delivered.

Santa Cruz (the most populous island in the Galápagos) promises some of the archipelago’s best wildlife encounters. Here you can walk in the midst of countless giant tortoises – perhaps the most emblematic of all the islands’ species.

Central Santa Cruz is also where you’ll find Montemar Eco Luxury Villas, which is surrounded by land that has been rewilded to serve as a habitat for the tortoises. All you have to do is open the door of your villa to see these majestic creatures slowly going about their daily lives.

Genovesa Island has two nicknames: Tower Island and Bird Island. The latter is clearly inspired by its dazzling diversity of birdlife, including both seabirds and landbirds. Think red-footed boobies, great frigatebirds and lava gulls, just for a start.

The island’s geography is also intriguing, with a large volcanic caldera surrounded by dramatic cliffs. There are two trails you can follow to find the best views and increase your chances of spotting as many different bird species as possible.

Bartolomé is a tiny islet off the eastern coast of Santiago Island, best known for the volcanic cone of Pinnacle Rock. We suggest climbing to the island’s summit for sweeping views of the rock formation and nearby islands.

The views aren’t the only thing to see here, though. Bartolomé is home to adorable Galápagos penguins, as well as blue-footed boobies and many other birds. There’s also plenty of marine wildlife; grab your snorkel to spot stingrays, sharks, sea lions and more.

The only penguin species that lives north of the equator, the Galápagos penguin is a truly exceptional animal. You can spot these little birds perched on seaside rocks all over the islands, but nothing compares to seeing them in the water. 

Galápagos penguins are incredibly speedy and agile swimmers, zooming through the sea in search of small fish to feed on. We recommend snorkelling at Isabela Island, Fernandina Island or Bartolomé Island for some of the best chances to see them in action.

Kayaking is one of our favourite ways to see an immense variety of landscapes and wildlife while minimising your footprint on the environment. The Galápagos offer plenty of opportunities to go kayaking, especially in the islands’ tranquil bays and coves.

Paddle through Gardner Bay on Floreana to spot sea lions, Darwin Bay on Genovesa for various bird sightings or Tagus Cove on Isabela for the chance to see penguins and blue-footed boobies. Wherever you go, keep an eye on the water to watch bright fish and graceful rays swimming beneath you.