Galapagos Bucket List: 26 Awesome Things To Do in the Galapagos Islands

Why Is Bartolome Island Worth Visiting In The Galápagos?

Bartolome Island is known for its dramatic volcanic landscape and a viewpoint with some of the most striking scenery in the archipelago. Diving and snorkeling bring close encounters with sea lions and even penguins. A day tour here costs between USD 245 and 495 per person in 2026.

Ranges seen on operator and booking pages in 2026; they move with season and group size.

Bartolome Island quickly became one of my favorite spots in the Galapagos, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a must-visit destination. The island’s dramatic volcanic landscape feels otherworldly, and standing at the top of the viewpoint, I was blown away by the iconic scenery that stretched out before me—easily one of the most stunning views in the entire archipelago.

For adventure lovers like me, Bartolome is also a haven for underwater exploration. Whether you’re diving or snorkeling, the marine life here is unbelievable. I had the unforgettable experience of swimming alongside sea lions, and I was even lucky enough to spot some penguins darting through the water!

It’s those close encounters with nature that really make this island stand out.

Bartolome’s beauty and unique wildlife make it one of the highlights of the Galapagos, and I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the incredible diversity of this magical place. If you’re planning your trip, definitely add Bartolome Island to your list—you won’t regret it!

One of the highlights of my visit to Bartolome Island was seeing the breathtaking Pinnacle Rock up close. This towering rock formation, with its sharp, arrowhead-like shape, feels like something straight out of a postcard. As we approached, I couldn’t help but be in awe of how it stood out so dramatically against the volcanic landscape, almost as if nature had sculpted it intentionally.

Formed by the erosion of a volcanic cone, Pinnacle Rock is one of those must-see spots that truly defines Bartolome’s charm. Standing there, with this iconic formation in the background, I could see why it’s such a favorite for photographers and travelers alike. It’s also a perfect place to take in some of the most stunning views the Galapagos has to offer.

If you’re heading to Bartolome Island, make sure to carve out time to visit Pinnacle Rock—trust me, it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

IMPORTANT: Bartolome Island is the most popular tour and thing to see in the Galapagos Islands, and only a restricted number of people are allowed on the islands each day. Therefore, make sure to book the tour in advance. I booked this one with Viator and never regretted it, as I saw many people who expected to book the tour while on the island, but they were not able to visit because the nearest available tour was in 10 days.

Can You See Giant Tortoises At Rancho Primicias On Santa Cruz?

Rancho Primicias is a privately owned reserve on Santa Cruz where giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. It is a quieter alternative to the more famous El Chato Tortoise Reserve. A visit can include the open-air lava tunnels formed by cooled lava, often booked through a Santa Cruz Highlands Tour.

Visiting Rancho Primicias on Santa Cruz Island was one of the most memorable stops during our trip to the Galapagos. This privately-owned sanctuary gave us the chance to see giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat, which was both awe-inspiring and humbling. There’s something truly magical about walking among these ancient creatures, snapping photos as they lumber around the lush green landscapes.

We decided to visit Rancho Primicias instead of the more famous El Chato Tortoise Reserve, and I’m glad we did. The peaceful atmosphere and lack of crowds made it feel like we had the place to ourselves. Exploring the open-air lava tunnels on foot was an unexpected highlight—wandering through these massive formations, which were created by cooled lava, added a unique twist to our visit.

To make the most of the experience, we booked a “Santa Cruz Highlands Tour,” which was incredibly convenient. The tour included visits to the Twin Craters, and we specifically requested Rancho Primicias. For around $40, we were picked up, toured the highlights, and returned to our hotel—an excellent deal for such an unforgettable day in the Galapagos!

Where Can You Spot Blue-Footed Boobies In The Galápagos?

The Galápagos hold half of the world's breeding pairs of blue-footed boobies. North Seymour Island, one of the top seabird breeding spots, is a popular place to watch them, especially during mating season. Their name comes from the Spanish word bobo, meaning foolish, and tours cost USD 230 to 495.

Spotting the iconic blue-footed boobies was one of the highlights of our trip to the Galapagos. These quirky birds get their name from the Spanish word “bobo,” meaning foolish or comical, which perfectly describes their clumsy movements on land. Their striking blue feet, which are an important part of their mating display, make them one of the most recognizable and fascinating birds in the Galapagos.

The Galapagos Islands are home to 50% of the world’s breeding pairs of blue-footed boobies, making this archipelago a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. We were lucky enough to see these birds during our visit to North Seymour Island, which is known as one of the top seabird breeding spots in the Galapagos. Watching them interact in their natural habitat, especially during mating season, was an unforgettable experience.

If you’re planning a trip to see the blue-footed boobies, North Seymour is a popular destination, but they can also be found on other islands south of the equator, such as Española, Fernandina, Floreana, Isabela, Pinzon, and Santa Cruz. Each island offers a slightly different experience with these unique birds, but all are worth visiting for a chance to see these incredible creatures. Tours to North Seymour tend to fill up quickly, so we made sure to book in advance, which I highly recommend to secure your spot and witness these charming birds up close.

Is Tortuga Bay In The Galápagos Free To Visit?

Tortuga Bay is free to visit and offers sunbathing, walking and water activities. Swimming on the main beach is not allowed because of strong currents, but a nearby cove has calmer water for swimming and snorkeling. Kayaks can be rented there, and birds such as pelicans, finches and flamingos appear.

Visiting Tortuga Bay was one of the most relaxing yet adventurous experiences my wife and I had in the Galapagos Islands. This pristine beach is the perfect spot to unwind, surrounded by the remarkable wildlife that makes the Galapagos so special. Whether you’re in the mood for sunbathing, a leisurely walk, or some water activities, Tortuga Bay offers it all, and the best part—it’s free to visit.

Though the main beach is stunning, we had to be mindful that swimming there isn’t allowed due to the strong currents. Instead, we took a short walk to a nearby cove, where the waters are calmer and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. My wife and I also decided to rent kayaks, which was a fun way to explore the nearby waters while taking in the natural beauty surrounding us.

Tortuga Bay is also a haven for birdwatchers. We were excited to spot various birds, including pelicans, finches, and even a flamingo wading in the salt lagoon near the mangroves. The combination of peaceful beach time and rich wildlife made Tortuga Bay a highlight of our trip, blending relaxation and exploration in the best way possible.

How Does Wildlife Appear Inside The Towns Of The Galápagos?

Wildlife is part of everyday life in the Galápagos towns. Sea lions lounge on beaches and take over benches, iguanas sunbathe on sidewalks, and pelicans rest near the docks. A simple walk through the streets can reveal a new animal around every corner, no excursion needed.

Walking around the towns in the Galapagos with my wife, we were constantly reminded of how much the wildlife truly owns the islands. One of the most charming and surreal experiences was seeing sea lions lounging around as if they were the local residents! Whether they were sprawled out on the beaches or casually taking over benches in the middle of town, it felt like we were visitors in their world.

As we strolled through the streets, we couldn’t help but smile at the sight of iguanas sunbathing on sidewalks, and pelicans resting peacefully near the docks. The wildlife in the Galapagos isn’t just something you go on excursions to see—it’s part of everyday life. My wife and I loved how every corner we turned revealed a new animal, making each walk feel like a mini adventure. The incredible biodiversity that thrives even within the towns makes the Galapagos a place like no other.

What Can You See While Snorkeling In The Galápagos?

Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities in the Galápagos, with clear water and abundant marine life. Swimmers encounter playful sea lions, sea turtles and occasionally penguins. Pinzon Island is a favorite snorkeling spot, where the water holds turtles, rays and even sharks in another-worldly surroundings.

One of the most popular activities in the Galapagos is snorkeling, and what makes it even more special is the opportunity to interact with the islands’ incredible wildlife. It was one of the most magical experiences my wife and I shared. Whether you’re swimming alongside playful sea lions, graceful sea turtles, or even catching sight of a penguin darting through the water, it’s an adventure we’ll never forget. The crystal-clear waters, combined with the abundance of marine life, make it an absolute must-do for any visitor.

At first, encountering sea lions up close was thrilling. Their playful nature made each moment feel special. However, after a few days, they became part of the everyday scenery in the Galapagos—though still incredible to see.

One of my favorite snorkeling trips was at Pinzon Island, where I got to swim with turtles, rays, and even sharks. It truly felt like being in another world, and I’ll share more about that adventure later.

How Hard Is The Hike To Sierra Negra Volcano On Isabela Island?

Sierra Negra on Isabela Island is an active volcano with a crater stretching nearly 10 kilometers across, and it is the only volcano on the island open to visitors. A guide is required. The hike took us about 6 hours, with manageable elevation gain but challenging equatorial sun.

Hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela Island was one of the most unforgettable parts of our Galapagos trip. With its expansive crater, stretching nearly 10 kilometers in diameter, it’s hard not to feel in awe of the sheer scale of this active volcano. Since it’s the only volcano on the island open to visitors, it felt like a rare opportunity to explore such a dramatic landscape.

The hike requires a guide, which added an extra layer of insight into the volcanic activity and unique geology of the area. The panoramic views, especially when reaching the highest points, were breathtaking. It’s definitely a must-do for anyone fascinated by volcanic landscapes and adventure.

Our hike up Sierra Negra Volcano took us about 6 hours, and while the elevation gain was manageable, the intensity of the equatorial sun made the journey feel more challenging than we initially anticipated. The expansive views and the surreal volcanic landscape, however, made every step worth it. Despite the heat, reaching the crater and taking in the breathtaking scenery was an unforgettable highlight of our time on Isabela Island. The sheer vastness of the crater and the surrounding lava fields created a unique experience that felt like walking on another planet.

At the top of Sierra Negra Volcano, the views were absolutely stunning. On one side, the vast volcanic crater stretched out before us, an awe-inspiring reminder of the island’s volcanic origins. On the other, we were treated to breathtaking views of the lush island landscape and the sparkling ocean in the distance. The contrast between the rugged, barren volcanic terrain and the vibrant greenery below was striking, making the hike to the summit an unforgettable experience. The beauty of this spot was well worth the effort it took to get there.

As we trekked across the rocky terrain of Sierra Negra, we stumbled upon thermal vents spewing steam, a fascinating reminder of the volcanic activity beneath us. We also noticed signs of life slowly emerging from the rocks, a testament to nature’s resilience.

Since only limited groups are allowed to visit Sierra Negra, we were fortunate to secure the last two spots while booking the tour on the Galapagos Islands. To ensure you don’t miss out, it’s a good idea to book in advance if you plan on hiking this spectacular volcano.

How Do You Get To Puerto Chino Beach In The Galápagos?

Puerto Chino Beach lies about 24 kilometers from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, reached by taxi followed by a short 20-minute hike. The calm sea suits swimming, and the white sand is good for relaxing. In the mangroves behind the beach, finches such as Darwin finches and ground finches can be spotted.

A lovely, quiet beach that I highly recommend in the Galapagos Islands is Puerto Chino, located about 24 kilometers from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. It’s the perfect spot to recharge after a few days of busy activities. The calm sea makes it ideal for swimming, and the white sand beach is perfect for unwinding and relaxing in a peaceful setting. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a serene escape on the islands.

In the mangroves behind Puerto Chino Beach, we were lucky enough to spot several Galapagos finches, including Darwin finches and ground finches, adding to the magic of this secluded spot.

To reach Puerto Chino Beach, we took a taxi from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for $40 round trip, and after a short 20-minute hike, we arrived at the beach. It truly felt like a hidden gem, and my wife and I were fortunate to have the entire beach to ourselves for the whole day. What a luxury in today’s busy world! It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the serenity of the Galapagos Islands.

Where Can You Surf In The Galápagos With Wildlife Around?

Surfing is popular in the Galápagos thanks to long-distance Pacific swells and volcanic boulders and reefs that create good conditions. Surfers often share the water with sea lions, turtles and sometimes sharks. Tongo Reef suits experienced surfers, while beginners can start at Puerto Chino Beach.

What Is The Wall Of Tears On Isabela Island?

The Wall of Tears, or El Muro de las Lágrimas, is a historically significant site on Isabela Island. In the 1940s and 1950s prisoners exiled there worked on it for 14 years and built it entirely by hand, and many died from accidents, injuries, exposure and inadequate care. We rented bicycles in Puerto Villamil to reach it.

The Wall of Tears (or El Muro de las Lágrimas in Spanish) is one of the most historically significant sites to visit in the Galapagos Islands. To reach this location, we rented bicycles in Puerto Villamil, as it’s the most effective way to get there. Taxis are no longer allowed to transport visitors to the Wall of Tears due to the road’s uneven terrain and the chance of encountering delicate species like tortoises along the way. The bike ride offers a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery and wildlife while heading to this poignant landmark.

In the 1940s and 1950s, prisoners exiled on Isabela Island worked on the Wall of Tears (El Muro de las Lágrimas) for 14 years. Authorities saw the island’s remoteness as an ideal location for a prison colony, believing escape would be nearly impossible. The wall was constructed entirely by hand by the convicts.

Tragically, the Wall of Tears claimed the lives of many inmates due to accidents, injuries, exposure, and inadequate care. The harsh conditions and grueling labor made it a place of suffering and loss.

Despite its dark history, hiking to the Wall of Tears is now considered one of the best activities in the Galapagos Islands. Along the way, visitors can witness the majestic giant land tortoises in their natural habitat, making the journey not only historically significant but also an amazing wildlife experience.

We were absolutely blown away by the experience of seeing the giant tortoises in the wild along the hike to the Wall of Tears. What’s even better is that it’s free, making it a fantastic alternative for those looking to save money without visiting paid ranches. Just remember to be respectful—keep at least 2 meters away from the tortoises and always follow the Galapagos Islands’ rules to protect the wildlife and preserve this incredible environment!

Can You Watch Albatross Steal Fish At The Puerto Ayora Fish Market?

At the Puerto Ayora fish market, wildlife provides unexpected entertainment. An albatross can be seen stealing fish, and sea lions doing the same is a regular occurrence in the Galápagos. Close encounters with animals are so common that these quirky moments become part of daily sightseeing.

In the Galapagos, close encounters with wildlife are so common that watching them do quirky, unexpected things often feels like entertainment. For instance, we spotted an albatross stealing a fish at the Puerto Ayora fish market, which was quite a spectacle! Similarly, seeing sea lions doing the same thing is a regular occurrence in the Galapagos, adding to the charm and uniqueness of these islands.

How Do You Visit Las Grietas On Santa Cruz Island?

Las Grietas holds three pools between two towering volcanic walls, filled by a mix of freshwater and seawater. The calm, current-free water suits swimming. Take a water taxi from the main pier for USD 1, then a 20-minute hike with a mandatory guide costing USD 10 per person.

In my opinion, the best swimming spot on Santa Cruz Island is definitely Las Grietas, and it’s a must-visit. The location is absolutely stunning, with three sparkling pools nestled in a crevice between two towering volcanic walls. It’s a unique and serene place to take a dip and experience the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands up close.

The water at Las Grietas is a unique mixture of freshwater, which filters in from one end, and seawater, which flows in from the other. Thanks to the protective volcanic walls, the water is incredibly calm and clear, with no current, making it ideal for a peaceful swim.

To reach Las Grietas, take a water taxi from the main pier (just ask for “Las Grietas”) for $1, followed by a scenic 20-minute hike. Note that guides are mandatory for the hike, which costs $10 per person, as independent exploration is not allowed. I also recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy this tranquil spot in peace.

What Can You See At Las Tintoreras Near Isabela Island?

Las Tintoreras is a small lava-rock islet named after the white-tip reef sharks that swim in its channels at low tide. Galapagos penguins nest there depending on the season. Swimming brings encounters with white-tip sharks, rays, sea lions and sea turtles, and a short walk crosses the lava formations.

One of Isabela Island’s most famous spots is Las Tintoreras, named after the white-tip reef sharks (known locally as “tintoreras”) that swim in the channels alongside fish and sea lions during low tide. This small islet offers an incredible opportunity to observe these sharks up close in their natural habitat, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts in the Galapagos Islands.

Walking on Las Tintoreras, which is primarily composed of lava rocks, should definitely be on your bucket list. The sight of Galapagos penguins nesting there, depending on the season, adds to the island’s charm and makes it a must-see during your visit to Isabela Island. It’s an unforgettable experience that captures the unique wildlife and landscape of the Galapagos Islands.

Swimming at Las Tintoreras gave us the incredible opportunity to encounter white-tip sharks, rays, sea lions, and sea turtles up close. The tour is also quite affordable, and you can easily purchase it while on the Galapagos Islands—we paid just $80 per person for this unforgettable experience. Make sure to book it in advance, we bought it here from Viator.

Which Birds Live On North Seymour Island?

North Seymour hosts the Galápagos' largest frigatebird colony, with both Great and Magnificent Frigatebirds showing red throat pouches in breeding season. The trail also passes blue-footed boobies, land iguanas, sea lions, marine iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls and common noddy. Day tours to the island cost USD 230 to 495 per person.

Along with its iconic blue-footed boobies, North Seymour is renowned for its large colony of Magnificent Frigatebirds. In the Galapagos Islands, you can find two frigate species: the Great Frigatebird and the Magnificent Frigatebird. Both species are fascinating to observe, especially during the breeding season when their impressive red throat pouches are on full display. North Seymour is one of the best places to witness these remarkable birds in their natural habitat.

The North Seymour trail offers visitors countless opportunities to observe the Galapagos’ largest colony of frigatebirds, along with blue-footed boobies, land iguanas, sea lions, and marine iguanas along the shore. Additionally, the island is home to large colonies of swallow-tailed gulls and common noddy, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching and wildlife encounters.

As mentioned, North Seymour Island tour is one of the most popular tours in the Galapagos so make sure to book it in advance here. 

How Long Is The Hike To Cerro Tijeretas On San Cristobal?

The hike to Cerro Tijeretas and Playa Baquerizo starts at the Interpretation Center near Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and covers about 6 kilometers, taking around two hours, or 3 to 4 with breaks. The trail is paved up to the viewpoint, then rougher, with the heat adding difficulty.

Tijeretas gets its name from the local term for frigatebirds. It’s conveniently located near Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, making it accessible on foot. The hike to Cerro Tijeretas and Playa Baquerizo starts at the Interpretation Center and follows an out-and-back path that leads to the beautiful Playa Baquerizo beach. This hike offers stunning views and is a great way to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos.

The hike to Cerro Tijeretas and Playa Baquerizo is approximately 6 kilometers long and takes about two hours to complete. If you factor in a lunch break, snorkeling, or taking pictures, it could take around 3–4 hours. The hike itself is relatively easy, with the terrain becoming more challenging due to the heat and rougher paths after Cerro Tijeretas. Up to the Cerro Tijeretas viewpoint, the trail is primarily a straightforward, paved walking path, making the initial stretch quite manageable.

Is Snorkeling At Playa Tijeretas Free?

Playa Tijeretas, a stop on the Cerro Tijeretas hike, is a free snorkeling spot. Swimmers see sea lions, turtles, rays and a variety of fish, while blue-footed boobies fly overhead. It is a highlight of the hike and a good way to enjoy the marine life of San Cristobal.

As mentioned, you can stop for some snorkeling at Playa Tijeretas during your hike to Cerro Tijeretas. This fantastic snorkeling spot offered us an incredible experience, where we saw sea lions, turtles, rays, and a variety of fish swimming around. Adding to the magic, blue-footed boobies were flying right overhead. Best of all, it’s completely free! It’s definitely a highlight of the hike and a great way to enjoy the rich marine life of the Galapagos.

Why Watch Sunset At Playa Lobería In The Galápagos?

Sea lions are common throughout the Galápagos, but sunset at Playa Lobería is a dramatic way to view them. The golden hues of the sunset form a backdrop that makes the scene ideal for photography. Moments like this are what make a Galápagos trip feel surreal.

Sea lions are a common sight throughout the Galapagos Islands, but the most dramatic way to view them is during the sunset at Playa Loberia. The golden hues of the sunset create a perfect backdrop, making it an ideal photo opportunity. Moments like these make your Galapagos experience feel truly surreal and unforgettable.

How Do You Visit Kicker Rock (León Dormido) In The Galápagos?

Kicker Rock, also called León Dormido or the sleeping lion, is a towering rock formation off the northern coast of San Cristóbal. It can be reached on the San Cristobal 360 Tour, USD 315 per person, or a dedicated Kicker Rock tour, USD 260, with snorkeling among hammerhead shark schools.

Park fee in force since 1 August 2024, none announced for 2026 or 2027.

The jagged Kicker Rock, also known as León Dormido or “the sleeping lion,” is a towering rock formation off the northern coast of San Cristóbal Island. Its distinctive shape and striking presence make it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Galapagos Islands.

Kicker Rock, or León Dormido, is one of the most recognizable landscapes in the Galápagos archipelago. Its towering rock formations and unique silhouette make it a must-see destination for visitors to the islands.

We reached Kicker Rock by booking the San Cristobal 360 Tour, which includes a stop at this stunning location. It’s an incredible part of the tour, offering the chance to experience one of the Galapagos’ most iconic sights up close.

We snorkeled at this legendary diving spot, famous for its schools of hammerhead sharks. The experience was thrilling, and it’s easy to see why Kicker Rock is considered one of the best places for underwater encounters in the Galapagos Islands.

While snorkeling at Kicker Rock, we encountered green turtles, schools of angelfish, and other shark species along the cliffs. You can visit Kicker Rock either separately or as part of the San Cristobal 360º Tour, a full-day adventure that includes Kicker Rock and several other fascinating spots around San Cristobal Island. It’s the most popular tour on the island and offers a comprehensive experience of its highlights. I highly recommend to book 360º tour here.

What Makes The Pinzon Island Snorkeling Tour Special?

Pinzón Island lies about 10 kilometers west of Santa Cruz and can only be reached on day boat voyages from Baltra or Puerto Ayora. Landing requires a special permit. Snorkelers see sea turtles, whitetip sharks resting with blacktip cardinalfish, and playful sea lions. Tours cost USD 140 to 298.

One of my favorite moments during my Galapagos adventure was snorkeling at Pinzon Island. The marine life and the overall experience were unforgettable, making it a highlight of the trip.

Pinzón Island is located about 10 kilometers west of Santa Cruz Island. The island is desolate and can only be accessed through day boat voyages departing from Baltra or Puerto Ayora. Pinzón Island has no tourist attractions, and landing on the island requires a special permit. When planning your vacation or cruise, be sure to include snorkeling at Pinzón, as it offers an incredible experience despite its remote location.

While snorkeling along the coastline of Pinzón Island, we saw plenty of sea turtles munching on seaweed. We also spotted groups of whitetip sharks resting in the shadows, surrounded by thousands of small blacktip cardinalfish. To top it off, some playful sea lions joined us during the snorkeling, making it an unforgettable experience!

Galápagos penguin sightings are possible at Pinzón Island, especially during the winter months. Booking a tour to Pinzón was surprisingly easy through a local agency while we were on the Galapagos Islands, but you can also book it in advance to ensure your spot. It’s an incredible experience, especially for penguin lovers!

What Is There To Do At Puerto Villamil's Main Beach?

Puerto Villamil's main beach has four kilometers of smooth white sand and nearby lagoons with a variety of birds. A slow day here can include watching marine iguanas on the sand or swimming nearby. Local eateries make a good spot to end the day watching the waves or the sunset.

On a free day, a walk along Puerto Villamil beach is a perfect way to unwind. With four kilometers of smooth, white sand, the beach offers a peaceful escape. Off the beach, there are several lagoons where you can spot a variety of birds, adding to the serene experience.

I enjoyed a slow, relaxing day watching marine iguanas scurrying around or swimming nearby. Ending a busy day in Puerto Villamil is perfect at the local eateries, where you can sit back, enjoy the waves, or watch the sunset—a peaceful way to wrap up your time in the Galapagos Islands.

When Is The Best Time To See Flamingos At Laguna De Los Flamencos?

Laguna de Los Flamencos near Puerto Villamil is home to flamingos year-round, along with other coastal and marine birds on the salt and brackish lagoons. The nesting season from March to July is the best time for courtship dances and chicks. A hiking pathway circles the lagoon with good views.

Numerous salt and brackish lagoons, especially those to the west of Puerto Villamil, are home to a diverse range of coastal and marine birds, including flamingos. At Laguna de Los Flamencos, you can observe these beautiful birds year-round, making it a great spot for birdwatching enthusiasts visiting the Galapagos Islands.

We were thrilled to discover Laguna de Los Flamencos, as it turned out to be the best spot for a photo op with flamingos. The serene setting and abundance of flamingos made it a memorable highlight of our time in Puerto Villamil.

The nesting season, which runs from March to July, is the best time to witness the mesmerizing flamingo courtship dances and see their adorable chicks. Additionally, the hiking pathway around Laguna de Los Flamencos is stunning, offering beautiful views and making it a truly scenic experience.

The Galapagos flamingo is one of the pinkest flamingos in the world, thanks to its unique diet of crustaceans and algae. These birds have also adapted in remarkable ways to the Galapagos environment, evolving to thrive in the archipelago’s distinctive conditions, making them a fascinating sight for wildlife enthusiasts.

What Is Brujo Fish And Should You Try It In The Galápagos?

Brujo fish, also known as scorpion fish, is a local dish served grilled at several bars and kiosks, with prices varying by the fish's size. Despite protruding eyes and orange skin with black markings, the fish is delicious. It can be prepared in a variety of ways for seafood lovers.

Locals highly recommended we try brujo fish, also known as scorpion fish, while in the Galapagos. Several bars and kiosks offer grilled brujo fish, with prices varying depending on the fish’s size. It’s a popular dish that’s definitely worth sampling for seafood lovers!

Despite their protruding eyes and orange skin with black markings, brujo fish are absolutely delicious. During our time on the island, we tried it prepared in a variety of ways, and each time it was excellent. It’s a must-try dish for anyone visiting the Galapagos!

What Is The Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa) Tour Like?

Los Tuneles near Isabela Island is a landscape of volcanic lava tunnels and arches above and below the water. It is mostly a snorkeling excursion, with rays and sea turtles underwater and a short walk among the lava formations, where a seahorse can be spotted. Tours cost USD 135 to 253.

Near Isabela Island is a unique spot called Los Tuneles, where volcanic lava has formed stunning tunnels and arches both above and below the water. It’s a fascinating location for visitors, offering beautiful landscapes and incredible snorkeling experiences.

In this breathtaking environment at Los Tuneles, we enjoyed snorkeling and were lucky enough to see rays and sea turtles up close. The marine life in the Galapagos is simply incredible, and our snorkeling experiences just kept getting better with each passing day. We couldn’t get enough of the underwater wonders that the Galapagos has to offer!

Los Tuneles is mostly a snorkeling excursion, but we had the chance to get off the boat for a quick stroll among the amazing lava formations and to spot local wildlife. One of the highlights for me was spotting a seahorse—it was the first time I’d ever seen one in real life!

The intense waves crashing onto the rocks over time carved out and collapsed much of the settled lava, forming bridges and caverns. This unique geological process gave Los Tuneles its name, with the tunnels winding through the solidified lava, creating a mesmerizing landscape both above and below the water.

As a result, a tranquil cobalt sea is surrounded by rugged, craggy lava platforms dotted with cacti, creating an almost surreal and otherworldly scene. The contrast between the deep blue water and the stark, volcanic landscape makes Los Tuneles a truly unforgettable location in the Galapagos. Los Tuneles tour is quite popular, you can check online prices here.

Where Can You Walk Through Lava Tunnels On Santa Cruz?

Lava tunnels can be explored at the hamlet of Bellavista in the Santa Cruz Highlands, 7 kilometers from Puerto Ayora. Formed when the exterior of a molten lava flow solidified, they stretch over 1 kilometer, with one short crawl section of around 8 to 10 feet. The walk is relatively easy.

You can stroll through the fascinating lava tunnels or lava tubes at the hamlet of Bellavista in the Santa Cruz Highlands, just 7 kilometers inland from Puerto Ayora, where we were staying. These tunnels stretch for more than 1 kilometer and were formed when the exterior of a molten lava flow solidified.

Most of the journey is through vast areas with high ceilings, but there’s a short section where you need to crawl on your hands and knees for around 8-10 feet to get through. Be prepared to get a little dirty, but overall, the hike is relatively easy, even for those who aren’t particularly adventurous!

Are Last-Minute Cruise Deals Worth It In The Galápagos?

Last-minute cruise deals in the Galápagos can reach up to 75% off the original cost, making them good for the wallet. Many options are available. We had already fully booked a land-based trip and could not cancel hotel reservations, so we missed the chance ourselves.

Booking a last-minute cruise deal in the Galapagos is not only a fantastic addition to your bucket list but also great for your wallet. If you’re willing to take a chance, you might be surprised by the incredible deals you can find—sometimes up to 75% off the original cost! We were amazed at the number of last-minute cruise options available. Unfortunately, since we had already fully booked our land-based trip and couldn’t cancel our hotel reservations, we missed out on this opportunity. Otherwise, we would have jumped at the chance to experience a last-minute Galapagos cruise.

What Happens On A Galápagos Food Tour In Puerto Ayora?

An authentic food tour led by Cristina, a local guide, visits hidden gem restaurants in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz. It covers 4 restaurants plus a chocolate shop, with reserved tables and, when available, meetings with chefs sharing family recipes. Dishes include fresh octopus, braised greens with pork and green plantain with fish.

Honestly, this was one of the most unexpected highlights of my Galapagos trip and something you’ll rarely see mentioned in other travel blogs! I joined an authentic food tour led by Cristina, a local guide with infectious passion for her islands’ cuisine. She took us through hidden gem restaurants in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz that I would’ve never discovered on my own. We sampled incredible local dishes like fresh octopus, braised greens with pork, green plantain with fish and more! Each bite telling a story of the islands.

What made it special? At each of the 4 restaurants (plus a charming chocolate shop), we had a reserved table waiting for us, and when available, we actually met the chefs who shared their family recipes and Galapagos cooking secrets. It felt less like a tour and more like being welcomed into the local food scene. If you’re a foodie like me, this is how you experience the real Galapagos beyond the wildlife and you’ll be supporting amazing local, family-owned spots. Book this experience here.

Which Popular Galápagos Destinations Are Not Worth Visiting?

Charles Darwin Research Station, despite free admission, can feel boring unless research and preservation projects interest you, and better places exist to see turtles. Sombrero Chino Island is only reachable on a northern-itinerary cruise and offers little unique wildlife. Laguna del Junco takes a full day and is often foggy.

Charles Darwin Station

While the Charles Darwin Station is a popular tourist spot, I personally found it a bit boring. Unless you’re particularly interested in research, preservation, or sustainable projects in the Galapagos, it might not feel worthwhile. Plus, there are much better places to see turtles throughout the islands!

Sombrero Chino Island

The trip to Sombrero Chino Island can be a bit pricey, as it’s only accessible through a Galapagos cruise that follows the northern itinerary circle. While the island is beautiful, the activities and wildlife here are quite similar to what you’ll find on other islands, making it less unique compared to other experiences in the Galapagos.

Laguna del Junco

Visiting Laguna del Junco will take up an entire day of your itinerary, and the area is often foggy, so it doesn’t offer the scenic views that other Galapagos destinations are known for. If you’re looking for more dramatic landscapes, there are better options on the islands.

Why Are The Galápagos Islands A Bucket List Destination?

The Galápagos offer snorkeling with marine life, hiking through volcanic landscapes and wildlife encounters in town and in the wild. Entry costs USD 200 park fee for foreign adults plus a USD 20 transit control card. Whether following a ready bucket list or designing your own trip, the archipelago feels like another world.

The Galapagos Islands offer a wide range of activities that are sure to captivate any traveler. From snorkeling with marine life to hiking through volcanic landscapes, the archipelago feels like a journey to another world, making it truly bucket list worthy!

Whether you follow the bucket list we’ve created or design your own adventure, there’s no doubt that you’ll have an unforgettable time exploring the wonders of the Galapagos Islands!

Make sure to check my video about travelling on the Galapagos: