Top 10 Things To Do in the Galapagos

Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash

The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago, otherwise known as a grouping of islands, located off the coast of Ecuador in South America in the Pacific Ocean. This island chain is well known for many, many things. It is renowned for its biodiversity and has been written about for decades in scientific journals. In fact, one of the first proponents of this archipelago’s incredible significance was Charles Darwin. In popular culture, you might have even heard about the famous Galapagos Giant Tortoise which is now officially a protected species. The islands are a popular destination for tourists and scientists alike in modern times. If you are planning a trip here but want to get some more information on the region, then here are the top ten things you should consider doing while you are there.

1. Take a Cruise
This chain of islands is located in the Pacific Ocean, so one fun idea for those who want to spend more time near the sea would be to take a fun galapagos cruise. On a cruise, you would be able to enjoy the many amenities that the cruise ship life has to offer while also getting to partake in safe yet adventurous activities on land.

2. Go Snorkeling
For those who want to dip their feet into sea-based adventures but do not want to go all-in, snorkeling is a less advanced option than diving. Snorkeling offers all of the fun that diving does without all of the complications. There are so many amazing sea animals and plants that you could spend hours searching for and interacting with among the shallow waters.

3. Take a Hike (Or Two)
If you are planning on spending time in the Galapagos then there is a good chance that you love hiking. There are so many beautiful hiking trails on every single island. You could go hiking in the Isabela Island wetlands and see flamingoes, hike to the beach and maybe see a tortoise on Santa Cruz island, hike around Santa Fe Island and see the Prickly Pear Cacti, and much more.

4. Visit the Tortoises
The gigantic tortoises that are indigenous to this island are endangered. Luckily, there are sanctuaries that house and breed this species which you can stop by and visit!

5. Go Bird Watching
The biodiversity in Galapagos extends to bird species. The famous Boobie birds live here! If you enjoy species discovery, then go on a bird-watching tour. You will not be disappointed.

6. Relax At A Beach (Or Three)
Of course, you should spend some time at the beach. There are countless beaches here, but some popular ones include Tortuga Bay, Playa El Garrapatero, Bartolome Island Beach, and Puerto Chino.

7. Hike Up a Volcano
Because the archipelago was created by volcanoes, there are still volcanoes throughout the area. You can even hike up to the top of some of them, including Sierra Negra which is technically still an active volcano.

8. Visit a Pirate Cove
Fernandina Island has old pirate graffiti and artifacts from the days of the pirates. You can spend a day walking where the sea-dwelling scoundrels used to hide away from the law.

9. Go Surfing in A Legal Spot
Surfing is very popular in the Galapagos, but there are not all that many spots where it is legal for tourists. San Cristobal Island is the best place for tourists to come and experience some world-class waves.

10. Go Spelunking in Lava Tunnels
This is just as amazing as it sounds. This archipelago was created by ancient volcanic eruptions which have left behind miles of cave-like rock tunnels formed by ancient lava flow. There are all kinds of unique flora and fauna that reside there as well as beautiful rock formations.

No matter what you decide to do in the Galapagos Islands, you are bound to have a great time and learn so many interesting things. Enjoy your trip!

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