Galapagos Bucket List: 25 Awesome Things To Do in the Galapagos Islands

Playa Baquerizo beach San Cristobal, Galapagos

A journey to the Galapagos Islands is unquestionably on the wish list of any traveler and there are so many things to do! This archipelago, located 620 miles offshore of Ecuador’s Mainland in the Pacific Ocean, is made up of around 19 islands and countless smaller islets.

Due to the absence of predators, it is possible to get up close and personal with the animals, including playful sea lions and enormous sea tortoises which don’t mind when tourists approach them and coo over them. This charming hideaway is also a dual-designated World Heritage site because of the well-preserved and protected surrounding land and marine areas. 

So here you go, I short listed 25 things to do in the Galapagos Islands based on my travel experience that you can also check in my video or scroll down for more details:

1. Visit and Check Out the Stunning Landscapes of Bartolome Island

Panoramic View of Bartolome Island, Galapagos

The island of Bartolome is a tourist favorite and a must-visit location and thing to do while in the Galapagos. It is well known for the iconic image of the jaw-dropping volcanic scenery of the Galapagos Islands.

Bartolome Island is a fantastic place to go scuba diving and see underwater animals. Not to mention the incredible chance to go snorkeling with playful sea lions and penguins. Bartolome is one of the nicest Galapagos islands to visit, and we highly suggest it!

The most recognizable feature in Bartolome is Pinnacle Rock, an odd-looking rock formation that appears to be erupting from the landscape like an arrowhead. This natural landmark was created by the erosion of a volcanic cone.

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.

2. Take a Picture at Rancho Primicias – Giant Tortoise Reserve with Giant Turtle

Giant Galapagos turtle at the La Caseta part of El Chato with my wife behind

This privately-owned animal sanctuary lies on Santa Cruz Island, about 13 miles from Puerto Ayora, and is home to many giant tortoises. The location also has lava tunnels constructed of hardened, cooled lava that may be walked through as well as services like a café and restrooms.

Galapagos Giant tortoises behind me at El Chato Tortoise Reserve

Although the island’s more well-known El Chato Tortoise Reserve is right next door, previous visitors were happy they chose Rancho Primicias instead, praising its less crowded environment and abundance of photo opportunities as highlights.

We had a great time walking around the ranch’s open-air lava tunnels.

To get there, simply ask a taxi driver for a “Santa Cruz Highlands Tour” that includes transportation to Twin Crater, El Chato Tortoise Reserve (or you can ask for Rancho Primicias instead instead), and open-air lava tunnels. The cost was only $40, including transportation back to your hotel.

3. Spot Blue-Footed Boobies

Blue Footed boobies on Punta Pitt point

The name “Blue-footed Booby” comes from the Spanish word “bobo,” which denotes foolish or comical. This description refers to their land-based habits. It has also been observed that they do not fear when approached by humans.

The Galapagos Islands are a must-see destination since they are home to 50% of breeding blue-footed boobie pairs.

Blue footed boobie at Lobos Island

One of the best seabird breeding locations in the Galapagos is North Seymour, where blue-footed boobies are frequently seen. Due to this, North Seymour Islands tour is quite popular so make sure to book it in advance here

Numerous other islands south of the equator are home to sizable breeding populations of blue-footed boobies, such as:

4. Visit Tortuga Bay

wide beach of Tortuga Bay

Tortuga Bay is a great place to relax and take part in typical each activities while being surrounded by the amazing Galapagos wildlife. It’s a great place to unwind and sunbathe, or you may swim, snorkel, or go for a walk. It’s free to visit as well. 

It is important to remember that swimming from Tortuga Bay’s main beach is not permitted due to the strong currents; however, you are welcome to swim from the nearby cove, which is more protected. We rented kayaks in the location and had fun exploring the surroundings of the island.

Tortuga Bay beach on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos

Another popular activity that we tried in Tortuga Bay is birdwatching. Due to the interesting variety of birds that live here, birdwatchers will surely enjoy spending their time here. Pelicans, finches, and occasionally flamingos can also be found in the salt lagoon that borders the mangroves. Visiting Tortuga Bay and a favorite thing to do in the Galapagos for many travelers. 

5. Walk Around the Towns and See How the Wildlife Owns the Island

Sea lion sleeping on the bench, Galapagos Islands in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz)

Simply walking around the town will show you how the wildlife in Galapagos owns the islands. Sea lions are the most common view you will see. Most of them flock to the beaches as if they are sunbathing, while some can be also seen on benches in the middle of the town! 

Everywhere you go in Galapagos, you will find an interesting species that is something that you will only see in these exquisite islands.

6. Snorkle with Sea Lions, Turtles, Rays, and Sharks

Sea lions in the water on Pinzon Island, Galapagos

One of the most popular activities and things to do in the Galapagos is snorkeling. What’s more fun here is that you can get to interact with the wildlife inhabiting the islands. 

Sharks on Pinzon Island Galapagos

At first, it was so exciting to mingle with the sea lions on the beach and while snorkeling. But after a few days, you’ll get a feeling like they are a common sight in the islands and the excitement dies out soon. 

stingray Tour 360 galapagos

Snorkeling is also a chance to swim with and encounter turtles, rays, and even sharks! An experience like this really makes me feel like Galapagos is in another dimension. My favourite tour for snorkeling was Pinzon Island but I’ll share more details later below.

6. Climb to the Top of Sierra Negra Volcano

Sierra Negra Volcano

On Isabela Island in the Galapagos Islands, there are five active volcanoes, including the Sierra Negra Volcano. It is the only volcano that guests are permitted to hike and it is only reachable with a guide. If you are into volcanic landscape, than this hike is an absolute thing to do in the Galapagos Islands.

Sierra Negra Volcano

Our entire hike up the volcano took around 6 hours. The distance and intensity of the equatorial sun made our trip a bit challenging even if the trail’s elevation is only gradual.

Doing trekking with guide at Sierra Negra Volacno, Galapagos

On top of the volcano, there were breathtaking views over the island and the caldera. On one side, we could see the vast volcanic crater, while on the other, we could enjoy views of the lush island landscape and the ocean.

Beauty of Sierra Negra Volcano , Galapagos

As we walked on the rocky terrain, we discovered thermal vents that were spewing steam and indications of life that were slowly emerging from the rocks.

There are limited groups allowed to visit Sierra Negra, we were lucky to grab 2 last spots while booking this tour on the Galapagos Islands, but you can also book it in advance.

7. Recharge at Puerto Chino Beach

Puerto Chino Beach view from the top

A lovely and empty beach that I highly recommend to visit while in the Galapagos Islands called Puerto Chino is 24 kilometers away from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. We find this location to be a great place for recharging after a few days of busy activities. It is a perfect spot for swimming with its calm sea and unwinding on the white sand beach.

Recharging and reading e-book at puerto chino beach

In the mangroves behind the shore, we were able to spot several Galapagos finches, such as Darwin finches and ground finches.

To get to Puerto Chino Beach, you’ll need to grab a cab from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (the taxi cost us $40 for a round trip). Take a 20-minute hike to the beach. It was a hidden gem that we found and enjoyed, having the beach to ourselves for the entire day. What a luxury these days!

8. Surf with the Wildlife

Surfing on Puerto Chino beach on Galapagos

Surfing is also a popular activity in the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands’ exposure to long-distance Pacific north and south swells, as well as the hard volcanic granite boulders and reef that create its ideal surf, make surfing there possible. Like other activities, you may anticipate surfing with wildlife such as sea lions, turtles, and sometimes, even sharks. One of the most popular places for surfing in the Galapagos is Tongo Reef but if you are beginner you can try Puerto Chino beach.

9. Explore the Wall of Tears

Wall of Tears view from the top, Isabela Island, Galapagos

The Wall of Tears or El Muro de las Lágrimas in Spanish is one of the most significant historical sites to visit in the Galapagos Islands.

We rented bicycles in Puerto Villamil as it is the most effective way to go to the Wall of Tears. Taxis are no longer permitted to transport visitors to the Wall of Tears due to the road’s uneven path terrain and the possibility of seeing delicate species like tortoises along the way.

Hike along the Wall of Tears, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Prisoners exiled in Isabela Island in the 1940s and 1950s worked on the wall for 14 years. Because authorities believed it would be practically difficult for anyone to flee the secluded island, establishing a prison colony here was a simple decision. The wall was built entirely by hand by the convicts. 

The Wall of Tears is said to have killed a large number of inmates. Many people perished in this location as a consequence of accidents, injuries, exposure, and poor care.

However, the reason why hiking to the Wall of Tears is considered one of the best things to do on the Galapagos Islands is because you can see huge land tortoises in the wild, in their natural habitat:

Galapagos Turtle on the Wall of Tears trail

It was mind-blowing to us, not to mention it’s free, so there’s no need to visit paid ranches for those looking to save money. Please be respectful, though, keep at least 2 meters away from them, and follow the Galapagos Islands’ rules!

10. Check Out How Albatross Steal Fish at the Fish Market in Puerto Ayora

Wildlife in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island

Because it is normal to have a close encounter with wildlife in Galapagos, watching them do strange and uncanny things is like entertainment to tourists. For instance, we spotted an albatross stealing a fish at the fish market in Puerto Ayora. Seeing a sea lion do the same thing is also a regular sighting in the Galapagos.

11. Cool Down and Enjoy a Crystal Clear Swim at Las Grietas

I am swimming in Las Grietas

In my opinion, Santa Cruz island’s best swimming spot is Las Grietas which you should totally visit. It is situated in a gorgeous location where three sparkling pools are nestled in a crevice between two tall volcanic walls.

Snorkelling at Las Grietas on Galapagos

Las Grietas’ water is a mixture of freshwater that filters in from one end and seawater that arrives from the other. Because of the protected walls, the water is exceedingly tranquil and transparent, with no current making it ideal for a peaceful swim.

To get to Las Grietas, you’ll need to take a water taxi from the main pier (just tell them “Las Grietas”) that costs $1, then take about a 20-minute beautiful hike. Guides are mandatory for this hike, which costs $10 per person; you are not allowed to walk and explore on your own. I’d also recommend coming early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

12. Walk on the Lava Flow of Las Tintoreras and Swim with the Sharks

Walking during Tintoreras Tour on Galapagos Islands, Ecuador (Isabela Island)

One of Isabela Island’s most well-known locations is Las Tintoreras. The reef sharks, also known as white-tip sharks, which may be seen swimming in the channels with fish and sea lions during low tide, gave this tiny islet its name.

Tintoreras inlet, Galapagos Islands

Walking on the islet, which was primarily made of lava rocks, should surely be on your bucket list. The Galapagos penguins that nest here depending on the season are a great sight to see.

Galapagos Shark

Swimming here gave us an opportunity to encounter white-tip sharks, rays, sea lions, and sea turtles.

The tour is cheap and you can buy it while on the Galapagos Islands (we paid $50 per person).

13. Explore a Plethora of Bird Species at North Seymour Island

North Seymour Island Tour Galapagos

Along with blue-footed boobies, North Seymour is famous for its sizable Magnificent Frigatebird colony. The Great Frigatebird and Magnificent Frigatebird are the two frigate species found in the Galapagos Islands.

Frigate Birds on Galapagos Islands during north seymour island tour

The North Seymour trail provides tourists with numerous opportunities to watch the Galapagos’ largest colony of spectacular frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies, and land iguanas, as well as sea lions and marine iguanas along the shore. On this island, there are also large colonies of swallow-tailed gulls and common noddy.

As mentioned, North Seymour Island tour is quite popular so make sure to book it in advance here

14. Enjoy a Hike at Cerro Tijeretas

Cerro Tijeretas viewpoint

Tijeretas is the name of the location because this is the moniker by which frigates are typically referred to. It is close enough to Port Baquerizo Moreno to stroll there. The Interpretation Center serves as the starting point of the Cerro Tijeretas and Playa Baquerizo Hike, an out-and-back path that leads to the lovely Playa Baquerizo beach.

Cerro Tijeretas hill sign

The hike is roughly 6 kilometers long and takes two hours to complete. It would take 3–4 hours if you factor in a lunch break or some time to snorkel and take pictures.

The hike is light too easy. The terrain after Cerro Tijeretas and the heat of the day make this hike the most challenging. Up until you arrive at the Cerro Tijeretas viewpoint, the trip is primarily a pretty straightforward paved walking trail.

15. Snorkel at Playa Tijeretas

Cerro Tijeretas trail path to Punta Carola

As mentioned, you may stop for some snorkeling time at Playa Tijeretas on your hike to Cerro Tijeretas. In this fantastic snorkeling location, we spotted some sea lions, turtles, rays, and all kinds of fish enjoying swimming around. Flying right above our heads is blue-footed boobies. It’s free as well!

16. Watch Sunset with Sea Lions at Sunset at Playa Lobería

Sunset at La Loberia beach Galapagos

Sea lions are a common sight in Galapagos Islands and the most dramatic way of viewing them is the sunset at Playa Loberia. It is a wonderful sight and a perfect photo opportunity. Scenes like this will make your Galapagos experience feel surreal.

17. Get a Kicker Rock Tour (León Dormido)

Kicker Rock tour on San Cristobal Island

The jagged Kicker Rock, also known as León Dormido, or “the sleeping lion,” stands over San Cristóbal Island’s northern coast.

Kicker Rock during tour 360

It is among the Galápagos archipelago’s most recognizable landscapes.

We were able to reach Kicker Rock by booking a San Cristobal 360 Tour which includes a stop at this amazing location.

Marine life at Kicker Rock

We snorkeled at this fabled diving spot, which is well-known for its hammerhead shark schools.

Turtle at Kicker Rock

We come across some green turtles, schools of angelfish, and other shark species along the cliffs.

You can visit Kicker Rock separately or as part of San Cristobal’s 360 tour, which is a full-day tour that includes Kicker Rock and other interesting places to visit around San Cristobal (the most popular tour on this island).

18. Get the Best Pinzon Island Snorkeling Tour

Turtle while snorkelling on Pinzon Island, Galapagos

One of my favorite moments of my Galapagos adventure was snorkeling at Pinzon Island.

Sea lions in the water on Pinzon Island, Galapagos

Pinzón Island is located around 10 kilometers west of Santa Cruz Island. Pinzón is desolate and can only be reached by day boat voyages from Baltra or Puerto Ayora. Pinzón Island has no tourist attractions, and landing there requires a special permit. When organizing your vacation or cruise, make sure to include snorkeling at Pinzón.

Wild fish during snorkelling on Pinzon island

We saw a lot of sea turtles along the coastline eating seaweed, but we also saw whitetip shark groups relaxing in the shadows, surrounded by thousands of small blacktip cardinalfish. We were also joined by some playful sea lions while snorkeling.

Snorkelling with penguin, Bartolome Island, Galapagos

Galápagos penguin sightings are also possible in Pinzon Island, particularly in the winter. Surprisingly, it was easy to book through local agency while we were on the Galapagos Islands, but you can also book it in advance.

19. Enjoy Walking on the Empty Puerto Villamil’s Main Beach

Puerto Villamil beach on Galapagos Islands

On your free day, walking on Puerto Villamil beach is a good way to unwind. There are four kilometers of smooth, white sand on the beach. There are a number of lagoons with various birds located off the beach.

Marine iguana sunbathing at Galapagos beach

I enjoyed a slow day watching marine iguanas scurrying or swimming nearby. Ending a busy day is perfect to spend at the eateries in the city where you can enjoy the waves or the sunset.

20. Walk Around Laguna de Los Flamencos

Spotted pink flamingo at Laguna de los Flamingos

Numerous salt and brackish lagoons, particularly those to the west of Puerto Villamil, are home to a wide variety of coastal and marine birds, including flamingos. In the Laguna de Los Flamencos, flamingos can be observed all year long.

Flamingo's Lagoon on Isabella Island

We are glad to discover this spot as it is where we found the best photo op with flamingos.

Watching birds and Flamingos at Laguna de los Flamingos in Isabela Island, Galapagos

The nesting season, which lasts from March to July, is the best time to see flamingo courtship dances and chicks.

Also, the hiking pathway is so stunning!

Trail to Laguna de los Flamingos in Isabela Island, Galapagos

The Galapagos flamingo is one of the pinkest flamingos in the entire globe. In order to live, they have also adapted in innovative ways to the Galapagos environment.

21. Try Fresh Caught Brujo Fish

Raw Brujo fish at Puerto Ayora's food market

We heard from locals that we must sample brujo fish, often known as scorpion fish. Several bars and kiosks offer Brujo fish out on the grill. Depending on the fish’s size, prices change. 

Trying grilled Brujo fish, galapagos

Even though brujos have protruding eyes and orange skin with black markings, they are delicious. When we were on the island, we had it made in a variety of ways, and each time it was excellent.

22. Swim Through the Caves of Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa) Tour

Los Tuneles landscape view

Near Isabela Island is a special location called Los Tuneles, where volcanic lava has carved out tunnels and arches both inside and outside the water.

Snorkeling Through Los Tuneles

In this breathtaking environment, we delighted in snorkeling and saw rays and sea turtles. We couldn’t get enough of marine life in the Galapagos and snorkeling just gets better as days pass by.

Spotting turtle while snorkelling at Snorkeling Through Los Tuneles

Los Tuneles is mostly a snorkel excursion, but we get off the boat to take a quick stroll among the amazing lava formations and spot local wildlife. I even spotted a seahorse first time in my life!

Spotting sea horse during Los Tuneles Cabo Rosa Galapagos

Intense waves pounding onto the rock carved out and collapsed the majority of the settled lava to construct bridges and caverns, giving Los Tuneles its name from the tunnels that wind through the solidified lava.

As a result, a calm, cobalt sea is bordered by craggy, lava platforms covered with cacti, producing an almost bizarre scene. Los Tuneles tour is quite popular, you can check online prices here.

23. Explore Lava Tunnels in Santa Cruz

Going to lava tunnels in Santa Cruz Island

You can stroll through lava tunnels or lava tubes at the hamlet of Bellavista on Santa Cruz Island’s Highlands. It is only 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) inland from Puerto Ayora, where we were staying.

These remarkable underground tunnels are more than 1km in length and were constructed when the exterior skin of a molten lava flow solidified.

For the most part, the journey was through incredibly vast areas of the tunnel with high ceilings, but there is a section in the middle where you had to crawl on your hand and knees to get to the other side. It’s just for around 8-10 feet, so be ready to get a little dirty. Generally, the hike is easy even for non-adventurous.

Get a Last Minute Cruise Deal

One of the agencies that sell last minute cruise deals on Galapagos

Getting a last-minute cruise deal in the Galapagos is not only something nice to add to your Galapagos bucket list but also good for your wallet.

If you want to take chances when traveling, you might be curious to find out how to book a last-minute Galapagos cruise. We were astounded by the number of possibilities available for purchase at 75% off the original cost! However, since we had fully booked our land-based trip and were unable to cancel the hotels; otherwise, we would definitely book a Last-Minute Galapagos Cruise.

Galapagos Destinations I Would Not Recommend Visiting Despite its Popularity

Charles Darwin Station

Tour at The Charles Darwin Research Station in Santa Cruz Island (Puerto Ayora)

While Charles Darwin station is popular with tourists, I personally find it boring. Unless you are interested in research, and the preservation and sustainable projects in Galapagos, you might find visiting this site not worthwhile. Also, there are way better places to see turtles.

Sombrero Chino Island

Sombrero Chino Island Galapagos

Photo Wikipedia by Ljuba Brank

The trip to Sombrero Chino Island is a bit pricey as you can only visit this site through a Galapagos cruise that follows the northern itinerary circle. The activities and wildlife here are also the same as on the other islands.

Laguna del Junco

El Junco Lagoon Galapagos panoramic view

Getting to Laguna del Junco will take a day in your itinerary. Also, it is always foggy in the area so it is not as scenic as what other Galapagos destination offers.

Conclusion

There is a wide range of activities you can do in the Galapagos Islands. The archipelago has a lot of things to offer that tourists will surely love.

Traveling in Galapagos is like transporting to a different world so visiting this place is definitely bucket list worthy! Whether you follow this bucket list we made or you create your own, there is no doubt that you will have a great time on the islands! Make sure to check my video about travelling on the Galapagos: 

About the author

Oleg Galeev

I'm Oleg, and together with my wife, we've explored Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, journeying through more than 20 cities (Quito, Cuenca, Banos, Tena, Puyo, Guayaquil, Riobamba, Otavalo, Mindo and more) and nearly every island in the Galapagos (including iconic ones such as Bartolome Island, San Cristobal Island, Isabela Island, Santa Cruz Island and more). In this blog, I give you my real thoughts about each place we visited. This info can help anyone planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands or mainland Ecuador. I'm just a traveler, not a tour company, so I'm not trying to sell anything. That means I'll tell you the truth—both the good and the bad — about traveling in Ecuador based on what we experienced.

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