People are always asking me – “Where is your favorite place in the world that you’ve been to?” And until I visited the Galápagos Islands, I didn’t really have answer for them. Now I do…The Galápagos is hands down the most unique and beautiful place I have ever visited. The islands that inspired Darwin’s genius theory of evolution are rich with wildlife and similar to a living, breathing museum wherever you go. There’s no other place in the world like it. So now let’s get into what you came here for: You want to visit the Galápagos Islands in 2023 – Where do you even begin planning for your trip?
Planning a trip to the Galápagos Islands might seem overwhelming. I mean, it’s isolated, protected, and requires fees and documentation to get into. That’s why I’ve put together a essential guide to help you plan your perfect Galápagos adventure. I’ll cover everything to help you make the most of this memorable trip, including when to go, how to get there, where to stay and what to do. So this is for all the nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts ready to discover the best tips and insider information for your ultimate Galápagos Islands experience in 2023.
Your Ultimate 2023 Guide to the Galápagos Islands at a Glance
About the Galápagos Islands
History
The Galápagos Islands were first discovered in 1535 by the Bishop of Panama, Tomás de Berlanga, who stumbled upon them while sailing to Peru. The islands remained pretty much unexplored until the 17th and 18th centuries when pirates, whalers, and fur seal hunters began to use them as a base for their operations.
It was during this time that the Galápagos Islands became famous for their unique wildlife, which inspired, yeah you already know, Charles Darwin’s famous theory of evolution. Darwin visited the islands in 1835 as part of his voyage on the HMS Beagle and only spent five weeks studying the plants and animals there. His observations of the distinct species on each island and how they had adapted to their environments, were key in his development of his theory by natural selection.
Despite the early human presence on the islands, there actually are no native inhabitants of the Galápagos. The few people who lived there in the past were mainly prisoners, whalers, and colonizers, but their populations were never sustainable due to the harsh living conditions and extremely limited resources – including water. Today, the Galápagos Islands are home to around 30,000 people, most of whom live on the four main islands: Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, and Floreana.
Due to the unique ecosystem and rich history of the Galápagos Islands, they were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Today, the Ecuadorian government has implemented strict conservation measures to protect the islands’ fragile ecosystem, ensuring that visitors can continue to experience the same sense of wonder of the Galápagos Islands in 2023 that Darwin did over a century ago.
Location & Geography
The Galápagos consists of 19 main islands, four of which are inhabited by people. The islands are situated about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, on the equator (so yes, it’s HOT), and cover an area of approximately 3,040 square miles.
The Islands were formed by volcanic activity, with the last volcanic eruption recorded in 2018 on the island of Fernandina. But what makes the Galápagos Islands so amazing is because it’s home to a huge variety of plant and animal species found nowhere else on earth, and the isolation has allowed for the development of so many unique and endemic species.
Wildlife & Conservation Efforts
The Islands are a unique and fragile ecosystem and have been the focus of conservation efforts for decades. Today, the Galápagos National Park, in collaboration with the Charles Darwin Foundation and other organizations, works to protect the islands’ biodiversity through a variety of initiatives. These initiatives include:
- Invasive Species Control: Since the islands were first discovered, humans (before they knew how damaging they were) have brought many invasive species to the lands. The Galápagos Islands have been threatened by invasive species for hundreds of years that have outcompeted native species for resources and disrupted the delicate ecosystem. Today, the national park conducts extensive control efforts, such as removing non-native plants and animals and closely monitoring what is brought to and leaves the islands, to protect native species.
- Sustainable Tourism: The national park closely regulates the number of tourists allowed on the islands to prevent overcrowding and damage to the ecosystem. Visitors are required to complete documentation, pay fees and follow strict guidelines to minimize their impact on the environment (more on this stuff later).
- Education and Outreach: The national park and other organizations work to educate visitors and local residents about the importance of conservation and sustainability. They also provide training and resources to help locals reduce their impact on the environment and promote eco-friendly practices.
When to Go
Planning your trip to the Galápagos Islands in 2023 will definitely start with deciding when to go. There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding the length and when to leave for your trip. This will give you a better idea of the best times to go to the Galápagos Islands and what to expect during different times of the year.
Climate & Seasons
The Galápagos will have warm weather year round, but most people agree that the best time to visit the islands is between December and May. Why? It’s also known as the warm season (rainy season) in the islands – the ocean is clear, the waters are warm, which makes snorkeling and diving conditions perfect. Temperatures range from the mid 70°s to low 90°s F (23-32° C). Tropical showers are also common during this time of the year, so don’t forget a poncho or umbrella!
June to November is known as the cool season (dry season), where you’ll find temperatures of about 60° to 70° F (16°-21° C). Rain is not common during this time, but the cooler days bring a consistent misty fog that covers the mountains and highlands. Trade winds pick up during this season so the waters tend to be a bit choppier, but it’s still an excellent time for diving and snorkeling – definitely something to consider if you are prone to seasickness! The cooler currents during this time also bring to life an incredible array of marine animals that you won’t see anywhere else in the world.
Peak Tourist Season
The Galápagos Islands are suitable for travel year round – there is no true high or low season. But visitation is highest during Christmas, Easter, and Spring Break holidays, as well as during the summer months (July & August). During these times, prices for Galápagos vacations and small ship cruises are typically at their highest, so it’s essential to book well in advance. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and score a good deal, consider visiting in early December just before the holiday rush, early January just after the holidays, or in September after the summer season is over. During these times, you’ll be able to enjoy the islands with fewer tourists and lower prices.
Best Time For Specific Activities
If you’re like me, you probably want to visit the Galápagos Islands in 2023 to see the incredibly unique species only found there. If that’s the case, you may want to plan your visit around specific periods when you can see certain wildlife. While many species such as giant tortoises and iguanas can be seen year-round, certain animals like penguins, albatrosses, and whale sharks require more planning to observe. So, if you have your heart set on seeing these unique creatures, it’s important to consider the best time of year to spot them.
Check out my guide here, breaking down each month in the Galápagos Islands and the corresponding animal species you can see during that time!
Getting There
The Galápagos Islands are not like other places you can just buy a ticket and go. Due to their unique location and fragile ecosystem, getting to the Galápagos Islands in 2023 requires a bit more planning and preparation than your average vacation. So here is everything you need to know as you start preparing for your trip:
Documents & Fees
As I’m sure you’ve heard, visiting the islands will require some documentation and cash. Prior to your flight to the islands, you need to fill out a pre-registration form. In this form you will include the dates you are visiting, which island(s), where you will be staying, etc. It’s very important you complete this form before you arrive to the airport. If you show up having not completed the PR form, you will 100% lose valuable time. After you submit, you are good until you get to Guayaquil or Quito airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, you will first need to go to the Governing Council of Galápagos (Consejo de Gobierno del Régimen Especial de Galápagos in Spanish) and there, you will pay a $20 fee and receive your TCT Traffic Control Card. DO NOT LOSE YOUR CARD. You will need it to get into and leave the islands. After, you will need to take your bags for inspection at the Biosecurity Agency (just follow signs for “Inspección de Equipaje”) where you will receive a blue tag, after which you can drop off your bag with your airline.
Once you get to the islands, officials will take part of your TCT card, and you will need to pay a $100 entrance fee. This fee is like a national park fee that all tourists must pay. Also – bring cash. All fees are only accepted in cash.
I recommend getting to the airport at least 4 hours early and keeping your TCT Card with your passport during your time on the islands so you know exactly where it is and it doesn’t get lost.
Airports
There are two airports you can fly into from the mainland – Galápagos Ecologic Airport (on Santa Cruz) and Airport Isla San Cristóbal. Keep in mind that there are no direct international flights to the Galápagos Islands as of 2023, you need to fly from either Quito or Guayaquil in Ecuador. Of course, choosing which airport to fly into will depend on your country of origin, which island(s) you intend to visit, travel itinerary, and budget. If you’re traveling on a budget, consider checking flights departing from both Ecuadorian airports and compare prices and flight schedules. You just might find better deals and more convenient itineraries that align with your travel needs.
Cruises
In case you’re curious about boat options, it is possible to get to the islands by boat from Guayaquil, but it takes about 3 days total and the boats aren’t known for their high comfort levels, they’re more like cargo ships. Finding a cruise ship that leaves from the mainland is also not an easy task, but there are plenty of multi-island cruises once you get to the Galápagos. Cruises are a great way to see the islands without having to do a ton of planning, just keep in mind each cruise is going to cost no less than $1000. You can either book them in advance or at many tourist agencies on Santa Cruz and the other islands. Apparently you might find cheaper last minute tickets at the tourist agencies – so if you’re flexible with your dates, this might be an option for you.
Ferries
Ferries are different from cruises, they are how you will get to and from each island. You can either buy tickets online or at multiple tourist agencies on each of the islands. Just know that it’s cheaper to purchase your tickets in person at the agencies than online. Make sure to arrive at the port about an hour early. It might seem too early but you will have to check in, receive a lanyard so you know which boat you’re on, have your bags checked, and then wait for your water taxi. No matter what island you’re traveling from, you will need to take a water taxi to your ferry, and again from the ferry to your next port. Each taxi costs $1 a person so make sure you always have some cash on you.
Before my first Galápagos ferry, I was honestly expecting to ride in ferries like the ones I’ve taken before in Europe – ones with decks, plenty of seating, restrooms, cafes, etc. (I know, it was very naive of me). The ferries in the Galápagos are small. Your ferry is pretty much a small speedboat with about 20-30 other people and all their luggage. Some ferries feel more cramped than others and the waves can make it a pretty choppy ride, so make sure to bring motion sickness medicine if you are prone to seasickness.
Another thing: ferries only operate between San Cristóbal <> Santa Cruz <> Isabela. That means if you wanted to go to Isabela from San Cristóbal, you must take a ferry to Santa Cruz first, then transfer to another ferry that takes you to Isabela. All ferries come in and out of Santa Cruz. I had no choice but to get from Isabela to San Cristóbal in one day by ferry during my trip (poor planning on my part). And here’s what I had to do – Wake up at 4:30am so I could get to the Isabela port by 5am, take the first ferry to Santa Cruz at 6am, get to Santa Cruz at 8am, spend 7 hours on the island, then take the afternoon ferry to San Cristóbal at 3pm. I finally arrived to San Cristóbal at 5pm. It was a long. Ass. Day. Just make sure you plan ahead or know what you’re getting into before deciding to do the same thing.
Organized Tours
If planning your Galápagos Islands 2023 trip still seems a bit out of your comfort zone, there are also many organized tour companies that will take care of all the logistics for you. You just pay, show up, and enjoy the wonders of the islands. While tours do take away much of the stress of travel, it’s important to remember that they can be pretty pricey. If you’re thinking about booking a cheap tour, all power to you – but you always get what you pay for. While most tours are quite expensive, it might be worth it to not have to worry about the technical aspects. However with a tour, you also won’t have as much flexibility if there are specific things you were planning on doing, as tours have itineraries. But if you’re interested in a Galápagos tour, here is a site that has many departing from the mainland.
Transportation on the Islands
As of 2023, you cannot rent a car on the islands. Every island instead has taxi trucks that can take you where you need to go. They are everywhere at the main cities and ports, so it’s not too hard to find a ride when you need one. If you’re going somewhere more secluded, ask your taxi to pick you up at a certain time from the same spot they dropped you off. For example, in Santa Cruz, I wanted to visit a beach, Playa El Garrapatero, which is a bit away from the main town and needed to take a taxi. The taxi dropped me off at the entrance and all I had to do was ask that he pick me up at 4pm. The whole round trip ride cost $40 and he didn’t take my money until I was dropped off back at my hotel.
The Islands
Santa Cruz
Many would agree that Santa Cruz is the most touristy of the main islands. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, breweries and markets near the main port, and there is much to do and see on this busy island. Currently, 18,000 people live on Santa Cruz and it is the second largest island in the Galápagos. In Santa Cruz you will also of course find an ecosystem of endemic species making it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
What Species Can You See Here?
There are tons of animals and wildlife thriving on Santa Cruz. You can find both marine and land iguanas, blue-footed boobies, the Galápagos giant tortoise, flamingos, white-tip sharks, black-tip sharks, sea turtles, a variety of rays, Darwin finches, pelicans, and tons and tons of beautiful fish species.
Where to Stay
Most tourists stay in the town of Puerto Ayora as it has the largest selection of hotels and restaurants. There are many hostels for budget-friendly travelers, as well as nice beachfront hotels. There are also plenty of Airbnbs and Vrbos hosted by friendly locals in Puerto Ayora. You may also be able to find accommodations more inland but remember, the town also is a central location for day trips and tours to surrounding areas, and it is the port city – meaning all ferries to the other islands depart and arrive from here. If you decide to stay further away from Puerto Ayora, you may need to come up with a game plan of getting around the island.
Things to Do and See
Here are some of the best day tours: Pinzón Island, North Seymour Island, Santa Fe Island, Daphne Island, Bartolomé Island, Isabela Island, Floreana Island.
Here are some tours you can do on your own: Park tortoise visitor center, Darwin station beach, German beach, Tortuga Bay Beach, El Garrapatero Beach, Las Grietas, highland ranches for giant tortoises, seafood market.
San Cristóbal
San Cristóbal is the second most populated island in the Galápagos and the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is the capital of the Galápagos province. Many tourists fly into San Cristóbal as its airport has flights from Quito and Guayaquil. I would say San Cristóbal is a perfect mix between Santa Cruz and Isla Isabela. It captures the essence of Isla Isabela’s natural splendor and Santa Cruz’s vibrant town life, blending them into a captivating destination of its own. It was also the first island Darwin visited on his revolutionary voyage. There is much to do and see on San Cristóbal as it offers a remarkable and diverse adventure for every traveler.
What Species Can You See Here?
You will see many species on San Cristóbal (as you will on any island in the Galápagos). Expect to see land and marine iguanas, giant tortoises, Darwin finches, pelicans, and lots and lots of seals and sea lions. There is a massive sea lion population near the main port you can’t miss every time you visit. There are also many day tours to surrounding islands where you can see blue-footed boobies, red-footed boobies, and Nazca boobies, hammerhead sharks, white-tip sharks, black-tip sharks, manta rays, sting rays, dolphins, sea turtles, and frigatebirds. San Cristóbal is also the only island where you can take a boat to Española – the only island where you can see the absolutely incredible waved albatross, one of the largest flying bird species in the world.
Where to Stay
It’s main town is called Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and it is a little quieter than Puerto Ayora. But it’s still a bustling town with awesome shops, restaurants, hotels and markets. Unless you are going on a nature expedition, when you visit San Cristóbal you’ll stay in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. There are many hotels, hostels and home rentals to choose from in the main town, in addition to being right by the island’s main port and airport.
Things to Do and See
Here are some of the best day tours: 360 Tour, Española Island, Kicker Rock, Highlands San Cristóbal tour, Caragua wreck dive, Punta Pitt, Isla Lobos Island
Here are some tours you can do on your own: Playa Ochoa, Cerro Tijeretas, Puerto Chino Beach, Junco Lagoon, Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, La Loberia Beach
Click HERE if you want to see a more detailed guide to San Cristóbal Island.
Isla Isabela
Isabela is the least developed island of the four you can stay, but that doesn’t make it any less significant. I stayed for a week in Isabela and it was definitely my favorite of the islands I visited. It’s quieter, more low key, has stunning beaches right by the main town, and filled with amazing wildlife. Only about 3,000 people live on Isabela permanently and the island does have an airport, but only for small inter island planes.
What Species Can You See Here?
Of course, being the most naturally inhabited island, you can imagine the species found here is vast. Expect to see sea turtles, sea lions, seals, land and marine iguanas, pelicans, giant tortoises, the Galápagos pink iguana, the Galápagos hawk, flamingos, manta rays, sting rays, bat rays, white-tip sharks, and black-tip sharks. Here, you may also see penguins but they are more common in the cooler season. I visited in March and April, and although I searched hard, I unfortunately never saw a penguin.
Where to Stay
When you visit Isabela, you will stay in the town of Puerto Puerto Villamil. There are many beachfront accommodations to choose from, in addition to fun bars and restaurants. You’ll find many long, white sand beaches near the town and several lagoons when you travel more in land. The town provides a laid-back atmosphere, but also serves as a gateway to the island’s captivating natural wonders.
Things to Do and See
Here are some of the best day tours: Tour to Tintoreras, Los Tuneles, Isla Tortuga, Sierra Negra Volcano
Tours you can do on your own: Concha de Perla, Wall of Tears, any of the beaches near town, the Flamingo Lagoons, the National Park Tortoise Breeding Center
Floreana
Floreana was the first island in the Galápagos to be inhabited by humans and arguably has the most interesting history. It is home to the first post office established by whalers in the 18th century and was the first island to be colonized by Ecuadorians in 1832. It is probably most well known for a series of mysterious disappearances in the 1930s involving an Austrian baroness. Today, it is the least populated of the islands with only 150 residents.
What Species Can You See Here?
Floreana is home to an incredible diversity of native species found nowhere else in the world. Expect to see iguanas, sea lions, seals, flamingos, several species of finches, sea turtles, giant tortoises, King angelfish, balloon fish, hawkfish, yellowtail grunts, white-tipped sharks, eagle rays, amberjacks, wrasses, hammerhead Sharks, boobies and penguins.
Where to Stay
One of the easiest ways to see Floreana is by booking a cruise. Some cruises will spend a couple nights here, so talk to different tour companies on Santa Cruz to see which one works best for you and your itinerary. There are also day trips from Santa Cruz to Floreana, but your time is very limited on the island. Another option is to stay a few nights on your own on the island. There are a few hotels in the main town of Puerto Velasco Ibarra such as Hotel Wittmer, run by descendants of one of the first families to live in the Galápagos.
Things to Do and See
Here are some of the best day tours: Floreana Highlands (where you can see the carved head statue), Cormorant Point, Devil’s Crown Snorkeling
Tours you can do on your own: Post Office Bay, Black Beach, Baroness Viewpoint
Final Things to Know for Your Galápagos Islands 2023 Adventure
Before I complete my Galápagos Islands 2023 guide for you, here are a few last things that I learned on my three week trip in the Galápagos you may find useful for your adventure:
- The official currency of Ecuador is the U.S. dollar. So that means you fellow Americans planning on visiting won’t have to worry about exchange rates or changing your money when you get to the country. This decision was prompted by a financial crisis that caused Ecuador’s former currency, the “sucre,” to plummet in value. So the local population began using U.S. dollars, eventually leading the government to officially recognize the USD as the country’s legal tender.
- The Galápagos are located right on the equator. In other words, the islands can be HOT. Mix the tropics with the equator heat and you have some pretty brutal temperatures. I remember seeing tourists merely going out for a walk, no more than an hour or two, and come back with severe sunburns. I even got heat exhaustion when I first arrived to the islands. Do not underestimate the sun and UV index during your Galápagos Islands 2023 trip. Always bring water with you and make sure to constantly reapply sunscreen throughout the day.
- Bring everything you need with you. What I mean by that is do not wait to buy any necessities on the islands. Everything on the islands is imported from the mainland – so they are going to be more expensive. A small bottle of sunscreen in a market in San Cristóbal cost $25. This came as a big surprise to me as I like to buy my toiletries as I go, but the prices on the islands were outrageous for simple things like sunscreen and after sun cream, so I was glad I did my research and packed enough for the duration of my trip.
- Pack light. It is not easy traveling from island to island. Add a heavy suitcase you have to lug around the docks, water taxis, and through the brutal heat – you’re not going to have a good time. Pack a carry-on sized bag or backpack to make your trek through the islands a bit easier.
- Horse flies are no joke. One thing that I definitely didn’t read about in blogs about the Galápagos was how insane the horse flies are across the islands. And they bite hard. They are at most beaches and are attracted to the salt that is left behind on the skin after a dip in the water. Some of the flies on Isla Isabela were so aggressive, they would hover above us as we swam in the water and would try and land on our heads. There’s really not much to to avoid the flies. What we did was made sure to dry off as quickly as possible whenever we got out of the water and brush off as much salt as we could. We also just had to swat them away with our towels.
As you continue planning your journey to the Galápagos Islands in 2023, remember to consider the history and conservation efforts that have shaped this remarkable archipelago. Explore the islands’ rich biodiversity but don’t forget to respect it and all the incredible wildlife you will be surrounded by. Let your adventure be a testament to the power of responsible tourism and leave a positive impact on this awe-inspiring place.
Visiting the Galápagos Islands in 2023 will undoubtedly leave an unerasable mark on your soul too. Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty, connect with the extraordinary creatures that call these islands home, and embrace the spirit of conservation that permeates the archipelago. So, dear travelers, it’s time to embark on your own Galápagos adventure. Discover the magic of these islands, create memories that will last a lifetime, and become part of the legacy that continues to protect and preserve the Galápagos Islands for generations to come.
Bon voyage, and may the wonders of the Galápagos Islands in 2023 unfold before you in ways that exceed your wildest dreams.
About the Author: I’m Alayna, originally from Orange County, California and now traveling the globe. After being bitten by the travel bug in 2021 during my first trip to Greece, I decided to completely alter the course of my life. For so long, I was under the belief that I had to go to college, get a good job, earn enough money, save up for practical things like a house and car, and then maybe travel if I found the time. Well, taking a spontaneous trip on my own terms made me realize there is no right way and wrong way to live life, and I am choosing to do something with mine I only thought was possible in my dreams: travel the world. It is my hope that through my stories I can inspire more people to take that same, life-changing trip to the place of their dreams!
If you are interested in seeing where I am in the world and keeping up to date on blog posts be sure to follow me on social:
