Top 10 Things to Do in Galápagos Islands 

Introduction 

The Galápagos Islands are not just a travel destination—they’re a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This volcanic archipelago, famous for inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, is home to breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and some of the most unique wildlife on Earth. 

But with so many islands, activities, and excursions available, many travelers ask: “What are the top things to do in Galápagos?” 

This guide covers the 10 best experiences you cannot miss, blending wildlife encounters, adventure activities, and cultural highlights. Whether you’re traveling by land-based tours or on a cruise, these activities guarantee an unforgettable Galápagos journey. 

1. Snorkel with Sea Lions and Turtles 

• Where: Santa Fe Island, San Cristóbal (La Lobería), Isabela (Tintoreras). 

• Why It’s Special: Swimming alongside playful sea lions and gentle sea turtles is the signature Galápagos experience. Sea lions love to approach snorkelers, darting and spinning around in a friendly dance. 

• Best Time: Year-round, but December–May offers the warmest waters. 

2. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station 

• Where: Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island. 

• Why It’s Special: This conservation center is the heart of Galápagos preservation efforts. Here you’ll see the giant tortoise breeding program, once home to the famous Lonesome George, and learn how scientists protect endemic species. 

• Tip: Combine your visit with a walk through Puerto Ayora’s waterfront for local food and crafts. 

3. Hike Across Lava Fields 

• Where: Santiago Island (Sullivan Bay), Isabela Island. 

• Why It’s Special: Walking over dramatic lava flows lets you step back into Earth’s geological history. The formations are surreal, resembling another planet. Some flows are as recent as the 19th century. 

• Best For: Adventure travelers and photographers looking for unique landscapes. 

4. See the Blue-Footed Boobies Dance 

• Where: Española Island (Punta Suárez), North Seymour. 

• Why It’s Special: The courtship ritual of the blue-footed booby is as charming as it is comical. Males lift their bright blue feet in an exaggerated dance to impress females. 

• Best Time: May–July for peak mating displays. 

5. Explore the Highlands with Giant Tortoises 

• Where: Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal Islands. 

• Why It’s Special: In the lush highlands, giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. Walking among these gentle giants, some over 100 years old, is unforgettable. 

• Insider Tip: Visit local farms like El Chato or Rancho Primicias for close encounters. 

6. Dive with Hammerhead Sharks 

• Where: Gordon Rocks (Santa Cruz), Wolf and Darwin Islands (advanced divers). 

• Why It’s Special: Few places in the world offer schools of hammerhead sharks circling in such numbers. Diving here is a bucket-list experience for advanced divers. 

• Best Time: June–November, when currents bring nutrient-rich waters. 

7. Relax on Galápagos Beaches 

• Where: Tortuga Bay (Santa Cruz), Gardner Bay (Española), Puerto Villamil (Isabela). 

• Why It’s Special: Beyond wildlife, Galápagos offers stunning white-sand beaches perfect for relaxation. Tortuga Bay, for example, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in South America. 

• Bonus: Look for marine iguanas basking on the sand. 

8. Kayak Along the Coast 

• Where: Santa Cruz, Isabela, San Cristóbal. 

• Why It’s Special: Kayaking offers a peaceful way to spot wildlife like rays, turtles, and seabirds up close, without the sound of an engine. Many tours combine kayaking with snorkeling. 

• Recommended: Early morning for calm seas and great lighting for photos. 

9. Discover Hidden Lava Tunnels 

• Where: Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island. 

• Why It’s Special: Underground lava tunnels stretch for kilometers, formed by past eruptions. Exploring these natural caves is both adventurous and educational. 

• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight. 

10. Meet the Galápagos Penguins 

• Where: Isabela (Puerto Villamil, Mariela Islets), Fernandina. 

• Why It’s Special: The Galápagos penguin is the only penguin species found north of the equator. Seeing them swimming or perched on lava rocks is a rare and exciting encounter. 

• Best Time: May–September, when cooler waters attract them closer to shore. 

Bonus Activities 

While the top 10 cover essentials, other must-do experiences include: 

• Birdwatching red-footed boobies on Genovesa Island. 

• Surfing in San Cristóbal. 

• Visiting local villages to enjoy Ecuadorian seafood. 

• Stargazing under some of the clearest skies in the Pacific. 

FAQs – Things to Do in Galápagos 

Q: Can I do all of these activities on a land-based trip, or do I need a cruise? 
A: Most activities are available on land-based tours, but cruises provide access to more remote islands like Española, Genovesa, and Fernandina. 

Q: Do I need to be an experienced diver to see sharks? 
A: Hammerhead shark dives at Gordon Rocks require advanced certification, but beginner divers and snorkelers can still see white-tip reef sharks. 

Q: Which island is best for beaches? 
A: Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz is consistently ranked among the top, while Gardner Bay on Española offers crystal-clear waters and sea lions. 

Q: How many days do I need in Galápagos to do the top 10 activities? 
A: At least 7–10 days are recommended to experience a mix of land and marine adventures. 

Conclusion 

The Galápagos Islands offer a unique combination of wildlife encounters, outdoor adventures, and pristine nature that you won’t find anywhere else. From snorkeling with sea lions to walking beside giant tortoises, every experience is unforgettable. 

At NATOURGAL, we craft tailor-made itineraries to ensure you experience the very best of the archipelago, whether you prefer land-based exploration or an island-hopping adventure. 

No matter how you choose to travel, the Galápagos promise memories that will last a lifetime.