What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word “Galรกpagos“? We remember first reading about this island sanctuary, a place that has been undisturbed for millennia and overflowing with fearless life forms due to having evolved without human interference. But what the books fail to mention is that you truly have to experience this paradise in person to fully understand how spectacular it is.
Read along this blog to figure out how you can visit Galapagos Islands from India. How you can discover endemic species like the giant tortoises, dive with hammerheads and spotted eagle rays, snorkel with penguins and playful sea lions, and carefully walk past uncountable iguanas lying all over the island.
It may feel overwhelming for you to plan a place so far from India and the wealth of information out there โ no stress, we will serve you with every minute detail you need to plan this epic trip.
But before we go into the details of your trip, you must have some knowledge of the Galapagos Islands in order to maximize your trip there.
Table of Contents
Where is Galapagos Island:
The Galapagos Island, rest in the Pacific Ocean, situated approximately 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador in South America. This remote paradise, made up of 18 main islands and numerous islets, sits right on the equator. It is officially part of Ecuador and you would need an Ecuadorian VISA to visit the Galapagos (more about the documentation requirement later in this blog)
Why go to Galapagos :
Let us give you not one but three reasons why Galapagos is a must visit at least once in this life
The Galapagos is among the few places on Earth where humanity can truly appreciate and safeguard nature sustainably. The animals there view us as just visitors and carry on with their daily lives uninterrupted. Without frenzy crowds, loud parties and trash โ and with so much bio-diversity. Thanks to protection laws and conservation efforts, this place is truly unspoiled
The flora and fauna that came to the Galapagos Islands by air or sea are the ancestors of the flora and fauna that now inhabit the islands. The species have evolved and adapted to conditions specific to their islands –ย as the islands are so isolated and distant from one another. Because of this, the wildlife here is unique and cannot be found anywhere else on Earth
Finally, if you are intrigued by how this archipelago on one end of the world has motivated scientists like Charles Darwin to write such an impactful theory of Evolution, then you should visit this place to seeย
Galapagos history 101 :
The history of the Galapagos Islands is as captivating as its biodiversity. Discovered in 1535 by the Bishop of Panama, Fray Tomรกs de Berlanga, these volcanic islands remained relatively untouched until the 19th century.
Known more for their strategic value and the occasional stopover for sailors and whalers, it wasn’t until Charles Darwin’s renowned visit in 1835 that the world began to recognize the islands’ scientific significance.
Darwin’s observations of the diverse species and unique adaptations on the islands inspired his theory of evolution by natural selection, forever linking the Galapagos to the understanding of life on Earth. Over time, the islands saw colonization attempts, exploitation of resources, and finally, recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, marking a pivotal moment in the preservation of this extraordinary ecosystem.
Today, the Galapagos Islands stand as a testament to both the resilience of nature and the ongoing efforts to protect and conserve this ecological wonder
Islands in the Galapagos archipelago :
In the Galapagos Islands, there are several uninhabited islands, each with its own unique ecosystems and wildlife. Some of these islands include:
Genovesa Island (Tower Island): While it’s not permanently inhabited by humans, it hosts a variety of bird species, including red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and Darwin’s finches.
Fernandina Island: This island is considered one of the most pristine environments in the world, mainly due to the absence of introduced species. It’s home to marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and Galapagos penguins.
Espanola Island (Hood Island): Though it’s not permanently inhabited by people, Espanola Island is a significant breeding site for waved albatrosses. It’s also home to unique species like the marine iguana and the endemic Espanola mockingbird.
Marchena Island: This island doesn’t have any permanent human settlement. It’s known for its barren volcanic landscape and is an occasional stop for some Galapagos tours.
Pinta Island: It was home to Lonesome George, the last known Pinta Island tortoise who passed away in 2012. The island doesn’t have a human population.
Rabida Island: While it’s not permanently inhabited, Rabida Island is known for its red-sand beaches and diverse birdlife.
Most of these uninhabited islands can only be visited by Cruise and some by taking a day tour from one of the inhabited islands.
The Galapagos Islands have four inhabited islands โ Santa Cruz, Isabela, San Cristobal and Floreana. The first three are the most famous ones:
Santa Cruz: This is one of the most populated islands in the Galapagos and is home to Puerto Ayora, the largest town in the archipelago. It’s known for its research facilities, tourism, and conservation efforts. Though populated and touristy, Santa Cruz can be a great base for you if you are here for the first time and want to do day tours. Also, there are enough wildlife in Santa Cruz from giant tortoises to snoozing Sea lions โ to give you a feel of the Galapagos.
San Cristobal: It has a combination of town life and natural attractions. You will see uncountable Sea Lions here in San Cristobal. A perfect blend of tourist and wildlife โ this island is also the base for the most famous Kicker Rock diving and Snorkelling tour.
Isabela: It’s the largest island in the Galapagos and has a smaller population compared to Santa Cruz and San Cristobal. Puerto Villamil is the main town here. Though infrastructure wise it lacks compared to Santa Cruz and San Cristobal, but if you want to enjoy a slow island vibe and see some gorgeous marine life including Sea Horses, Penguins and Sharks along with Sea Lions and Flamingos โ Isabela is the place for you.
How to reach Galapagos Islands from India:
If you are travelling to Galapagos Islands from India, there is no direct flight to Ecuador. You should have a stopover somewhere in Europe and may be in USA.
We booked a flight through KLM with a stopover in Amsterdam โ as Amsterdam doesnโt require transit VISA for Indians. Please check this while booking your flight to Quito.
We had a 10hr flight from Bangalore to Amsterdam and 11 hr flight from Amsterdam to Quito โ with 1.5 hr layover in Amsterdam. Once you are in Quito, before flying to Galapagos let me tell you all the details
There are just two possible flights from Ecuador’s mainlandโfrom Guayaquil or Quitoโto the Galapagos Islands.
You should factor in a night or two of accommodation in Guayaquil or Quito when making your travel arrangements to account for any delays, alterations, etc.
It’s also crucial to remember that, as of right now, only two airlinesโLatam Airlines and Avianca Airlinesโserve the Galapagos Islands.
There are two airports in the Galapagos Islands:
Baltra Airport (GPS): Baltra is the closest airport to Santa Cruz Island. You can book an airport transfer from your hotel (recommended), else take a bus to Baltra ferry terminal from Airport ($5), then cross the ferry ($1) and take another bus ($5) or taxi ($25) to Puerto Ayora of Santa Cruz Island โ the main hub.
San Cristobal Airport (SCY): This airport is less than a 5-minute drive from the centre of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. It only costs $2-$4 per taxi (not per person). Most flights to San Cristobal have a stopover in Baltra.โจโจ
Also Let me tell you the related fees and permits and process in detail.
First, you need the obvious documents, such as a valid passport, visa (if applicable) and proof of a return flight.
Now, the most important thing to remember is that before flying to the Galapagos Islands, you must first go through the biosecurity process. It takes place in either Guayaquil or Quito.
As the national park is home to a sensitive ecosystem, this is necessary to prevent foreign plant or animal species from entering the islands. Your package will be scanned from both sides.
Once you arrive in the Galapagos Islands, you will need to pay $20 per person for the Traffic Control Card and $100 per person for the National Park Fee.ย They are usually paid at the airport in cash.
TEE Tip:
All flights to the Galapagos require some time to check in at the airport. You will receive papers to reach the island. You will then go through additional security checks for certain products that are not allowed in the Galapagos, such as most raw products. There are lines to each of these stops and depending on the number of cruise lines departing that day it can take a while (for us it was about an hour). Give yourself more time than usual โ reach airport at least 3 hrs prior to departure.
If you are not from Ecuador, you must ensure that you do not book the lowest Avianca or Latam flight (without checked baggage). You may end up paying $150 per person extra at the airport. Supposedly there is a warning box with the reservation website that said this lowest possible price was only for residents of Ecuador โ we booked our entire thing with Ecuatraveling and it was smooth.
VISA Requirements for Indians :
Coming to one of the most complicated part of planning Galapagos islands from India- the VISA for Ecuador is not a simple process for Indians.
Till few years back the VISA was on-arrival for Indian passport holders and now the benefit is gone. Also you donโt get any special levy if you have US Tourist VISA (like other South American Countries like Chile, Peru, Bolivia etc.)
But if you follow the step by step process we are going to mention here โ you should be good.
ย Before I break down the steps, couple of key things to remember for Ecuador VISA
- You have to visit Ecuador Embassy in Delhi, in person (for the final step) to get the VISA
- Ecuador VISA is valid for 3 months from the day of approval, which in most cases the day you will visit Ecuador Embassy โ hence plan your embassy visit only 2.5 months prior to your intended last day at Ecuador
Now letโs break down the steps:
Step 1: 4/5 months before your trip – mail to Ecuador Embassy at cecunuevadelhi@cancilleria.gob.ec โ stating your purpose of travel, intended dates and request the list of documents needed
Step 2: A reply from Embassy with all likelihood, ask for following documents โ which you need to gather and not send over emailย ย
- Visaย Application form โ will be attached in mail from Embassy
- Request letter โ standard cover letter, stating the purpose and details of your trip
- Bank statements for last six months – should be attested by respective banks
- Original Police Clearance Certificate โ you should book an appointment at Passport Seva Kendra (https://www.passportindia.gov.in/AppOnlineProject/online/pccOnlineApp) and apply for it. Please note Police Clearance Certificate will be valid for 6 months from the date of issuance. You need to have it in valid state before you enter Ecuador
- Day to day travel itinerary while inย Ecuadoralong with hotel, return air ticket reservation.ย
- Travel insurance toย Ecuador.ย ย
Step 3: Apply for Police Clearance Certificate(PCC) as soon as you receive the mail from Embassy since it may up-toย month to receive it
Step 4: Once you receive PCC, finish your request letter, reserve (you may not need to buy an actual ticket โ though we bought) your return air tickets (ensure your transit airport doesnโt need VISA โ this is why we chose KLM via Netherlands) and hotels as per your itinerary
Step 5: Your Request letter, PCC and day to day travel itinerary required in original and translated into Spanish by certified translator with stamp โ also your PCC needs to be apostle by Ministry of External Affairs
This is the most complicated step, as we were doing it for first time. Finally we got hold of this agency in Bangaloreย https://superbattestation.com/bangalore.asp – and they did everything for us quite efficiently. Remember certified translator with stamp means SWORN translation โ most of the agencies will ask for normal or SWORN translation.
Step 6: After you finish till step 5 and have 2.5 months left for your trip (counting from last day at Ecuador), reply to the same mail (where they sent all the document details) to Embassy confirming your document readiness and asking for a slot.
Step 7: Once you get the slot, visit Delhi Embassy with all documents (also carry your leave approval letter, marriage certificate (if applicable) , other financial statements for investment and any tours you have booked). The process in Embassy is simple, they will collect your documents, go through them and ask you to come inside for a quick simple interview โto validate your background, intentions, financial stability and reasons to back home.
If your documents are right, you will get the VISA in all likelihood.
And once done, you need to pay the VISA fees in CASH (it was USD 80 pp for us) and you will get a receipt
Step 8: You will receive the VISA in your email within few days โ and finally time to celebrate !!
Best time to plan a trip to the Galapagos islands from India :
Galapagos is great to visit all year round as it offers a variety of flora and opportunities to encounter different marine animals depending on your visit. For example, July to November is ideal for whale watching, while March and April have ideal conditions for snorkelling.
There are two main seasons in the Galapagos: January-May is the warm season when the seas are calmer and the ocean temperatures are warm. July to December is the dry season when temperatures cool down, making it great for inland hiking.
If you want to avoid cold weather and oppressively hot temperatures, plan your trip to the Galapagos Islands between November and February. You’ll also arrive in time for the eggs of the Galapagos giant tortoises to hatch!
But remember that mid-January is peak season. You should book your trip well in advance to get your first choice hotel and lock in lower prices before they explode. Another good time to visit the Galapagos Islands is from May to July. Although it can be very rainy in the afternoon, the beautiful blue-footed boobies are mating during this time
Things to do when in Galapagos :
With more than 21 islands spread across a wide area, the Galapagos Islands have a lot to offer active travellers who love the outdoors. Here’s a rundown of the BEST things to do in the Galapagos Islands
For all the tours on every island, you can either book the whole like us with Ecuatravelingย , or with your hotels or by visiting any of the tour offices spread across the port towns โ but famous tours do book out fast โ hence if you are opting for on-spot booking, have some flexibility and book the moment you land up on the island
Santa Cruz Island : what you should do
Charles Darwin Research Station:
The Charles Darwin Research Station is located in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. As the name suggests, it is a base where scientists can study the Galapagos Islands. Tourists are still welcome and this is one of the main reasons why you want it.
Here you can find a captive breeding program for giant tortoises. Also, baby tortoises from different islands are kept here before they are sufficiently grown to live in the wild.
Tour & Guide: Recommended
Visit Tortuga Bay :
This place on the island of Santa Cruz is one of the most beautiful white-sand beaches you will ever see. It is also known for its abundant wildlife both above and below the waves.ย These include marine iguanas, sea lions, the Sally Lightfoot crab and white-tip sharks.
Tortuga Bay can be reached by walking from Puerto Ayora, which takes 30-45 minutes. Along the way you can admire the views and admire the birds – or you can take a water taxi ($10 each way) that goes around the island to Puerto Ayora and back. Take one of Puerto Ayora’s terminal docks.
Unfortunately, the main beach is too dangerous for swimming, so you have to walk along the beach for another 15 minutes or so to reach the end, where you’ll find a quiet horseshoe-shaped cove with its shady beach. Playa Mansa, a quiet, lagoon beach, is where you can finally find some shade and โ if you’re lucky on a calm day โ see small sharks in the shallows.
You can relax, swim, rent a kayak or climb lava rocks to see nesting marine iguanas and sea turtles swimming offshore.
Tour & Guide: Not needed
See Giant Tortoises at the Highlands :
You don’t go to the Galapagos Islands without seeing its most famous residents, right? While you might see them on the side of the road or go to a breeding centre, you’ll see them in all their glory (and giant size!) at a farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island.
Galapagos is not a flat land, Santa Cruz Island rises to 2,835 feet. The higher areas are called highlands and are cooler than the coastal plains, making them ideal habitats for the Galapagos Tortoise!
You will see their ancient animals roaming in their natural habitat with no cages, fences or walls
Tour & Guide: Recommended (also they include walking in lava tunnels as part of the tour)
Las Grietas Tour :
Las Grietas is a beautiful, naturally formed freshwater pool that forms in a gap between two volcanic rocks. At noon, when the sun is high, the pool is bright, light blue. The crystal clear water just makes it a fun place to swim.
We haven’t visited this place, but you can take a water taxi for $1 and at the entrance (after a small walk from the water taxi drop point) you need to take a guided tour for $10
Tour & Guide: Needed at entrance, no need to book early
Day tours from Santa Cruz :
You can choose many day tour options from Santa Cruz. Our recommendation would be North Seymour and Bartolome Island day tours. North Seymour is the place where you will see iconic Frigate birds and also Blue-footed bobbies. On Bartolome Island, you can see Galapagos Penguins, sharks, rays, turtles and a lovely viewpoint of Pinnacle Rock
Isabela Island : what you should do
Los Tunnels day tour :
If you can do one tour in Isabela island โ it has to be Los Tunnels. Undoubtedly the best tour with two gorgeous snorkelling spots where you see huge schools of colourful fishes, uncountable giant tortoises,ย rays, white tip sharks, penguins, swim with sea lions, seahorses โ the list is endless
It also includes a small walk on lava rocks where you can see blue-footed boobies.
This half-day tour sells out fast so book as soon as you can by paying $120 pp. You can directly book via your hotel
Las Tintoreras :
Another beautiful snorkelling place where you have a chance to see penguins, blue-footed bobbies and many other wildlife. A small 15-minute boat ride from the main dock of Isabela will bring you here. We did snorkelling for almost an hour here and had sea lions swimming with us.
You will also get to walk on a lava field where you can find white-tip reef sharks (Tintoreras) resting in an inlet, marine iguanas and sea lions all over your walking path.
You can book this and Los Tunnels tour with Pahoehoe Tour Agency in the main square of Isabela
Snorkelling in Concha Perla :
Concha Perla is a lagoon near the side of Isabela’s main dock – where you can snorkel and swim on your own without a guide. After the hustle and bustle of booked tours, we wanted to snorkel at our own pace.
Look for a small beach with a sign indicating a mangrove just before the main dock – past the stand selling fresh coconuts! Walk along this boardwalk a bit past the sleeping sea lions and you’ll reach a small dock with a ladder leading down to the water. You can rent wetsuits, snorkel masks and fins from Pahoehoe Tour Agency and do this all by yourself
Recommend doing this in the morning when the tide is low and you will see lots of wildlife including turtles, mantas, sea lions
Hiking Sierra Negra Volcano :
Isabela island has five volcanoes (yes, you heard it right) โ out of the five, Sierra Negra is the most accessible one. You will walk for 5 miles on each side (10 miles in total) on an almost flat trail. On a bright day, you will see a humongous crater โ the views are just so outworldly.
Even if you are not an avid hiker, you can do it as there is hardly any climbing as such. But you need an organised tour with a guide. The tour will pick you up on a bus at 7 am and take you to the starting point from where you will start your walk.
The only thing to keep in mind is, to carry good shoes and a rain jacket as it can rain and then the trail becomes excessively muddy โ because of the mud, it was not our “best” experience in Isabela.
Biking to Wall of Tears :
The name comes from the wall at the end of the hike. Before the Galapagos Islands were a destination for tourists from around the world and a nature reserve, they became a secret prison colony.
The Wall of Tears was built in the 1950s by 300 prisoners who worked under the hot sun cutting and transporting heavy and sharp black volcanic rock to build their prison. Some say that the purpose of building the wall was to exhaust and torture the prisoners.
If you decide to do a self-guided tour, you must first rent a bike in Puerto Villamil (the main town of Isabela island where you will stay)ย to get to the start of the hike ($10-15 with lock). You can walk there but it takes about 2 hours each way or only 1 hour each way by bike. Unfortunately, a taxi is not an option.On the way back, stop at Playa del Amor and La Playita – perfect for a quiet beach, snack and rest.
We haven’t done this tour but heard the views are gorgeous and you can spot giant tortoises on the way
San Cristobal Island : what you should do
We haven’t been to San Cristรณbal Island, but people who went there spoke very highly of the available activities on the island. You can take a ferry from Santa Cruz for $25 each way to go to San Cristobal or fly directly from mainland Ecuador to San Cristรณbal. There is no direct way to go from Isabela to San Cristobal
Tour 360 :
If you want only one tour in San Cristobal, this is the tour you should choose. A full-day tour, takes you to multiple snorkelling places and beaches including the Kicker Rock.
From what we heard and saw in photos from others, Kicker Rock is undoubtedly the best snorkelling place in the Galapagos (Los Tunnels in Isablea is a close second). It is a unique rock formation consisting of two vertical slices of rock placed perfectly parallel to each other in the open sea. It is home to a great variety of amazing underwater life.
In addition to the usual Galapagos stingrays, fish, turtles and other animals, you will also have the opportunity to swim with sea lions and hammerhead sharks below!!
Playa la Loberรญa :
Free beach within good walking distance of town – mostly paved/along the road, the last part is along the beaches/sand paths. Lots of sea lions, giant sea turtles and fish (bring your own snorkel equipment. Best in the morning at low tide
Playa Baquerizo :
A small beach that can be reached by quite a difficult walk from the city (about 1 hour from Punta Carola). You pass a nice view of the sea, but the last part of the walk is over big/sharp lava rocks.
Recommend going with someone and not wearing flip-flops, you need walking shoes/shoes.
Sunset at Lover’s Beach at Punta Carola :
To get to Lover’s Beach, go through the interpretation centre or walk to the end of the dirt road and find the stone path that leads to the beach. You can watch the sunset from the beach or continue up Cerro Tijeretas (aka Frigate Hill) to catch the sunset high above Kicker Rock โ while chilling with the frigate birds โ an iconic one from the Galapagos Islands
Tijeratas :
It is a Free snorkelling spot 10 minutes from Punta Carola in a secluded lagoon with no waves and lots of fish. The visibility is great
Land-based vs Cruise based itinerary :
Galapagos is breathtakingly beautiful and also heavy on the pocket โ it is by no means an economic destination. While there are pros and cons of both land-based tours and cruise tours (where you will be travelling on a cruise for the entire duration), let us first show you both sides
Land-based tours:
Pros: Cost-effective, much control over what you do and ideal mix of enjoying the island vibe, mingling with locals and doing day tours
Cons: Restricted to 3/4 islands (Santa Cruz, Isabela, San Cristobal to be specific). Not able to see more pristine and wildlife-dominated uninhabited parts of Galapagos like Fernandina Island. Also, you need to plan every tour by yourself.
Cruise tours:
Pros: Get to visit the remotest part of the island and enjoy life on a cruise. Without any hassle, your cabin, meals, excursions, and transport between islands are all completely covered.
Cons: Can become fairly costly (starts from $1500 for a week in decent ship ) and no control over things you want to do
TEE Tip: Choose Cruises if you can afford, islands like Fernandina and further sections of Isabela which are inaccessible on land-based tours are worth it. However, we did land-based tours and if you are coming to Galapagos for the first time you will enjoy it completely
Recommended itinerary :
We spent 5 nights in the Galapagos and here is our itinerary: 2N Santa Cruz + 3N Isabela
Day 1: Arrive at Baltra, the afternoon at Charles Darwin Research Station and Tortoise Breeding Centre
Day 2: In the morning, visit to highlands for Giant Tortoises and walk in the lava tunnel with a quick stop at Los Gremelos craters. Afternoon for Tortuga Bay
Day 3: Morning ferry to Isabela and reach by 10:00 am. Post lunch visit Las Tintoreras and evening enjoy sunset from any of the beaches
Day 4: Morning hike to Sierra Negra and afternoon snorkelling at Concha Perla. If you want to avoid Sierra Negra hiking, you can do morning snorkelling at Concha Perla and then bike to Wall of Tears
Day 5: Morning tour of Los Tunnels and evening enjoy sunset โ also spend some time in Isabela’s town square
Day 6: Morning ferry back to Santa Cruz and fly out in the afternoon
Now we understand, 5 days can be a bit less โ here is what we would recommend for 7/8 days: 4N Santa Cruz + 3N Isabela
Day 1: Arrive at Baltra, the afternoon at Charles Darwin Research Station and Tortoise Breeding Centre
Day 2: In the morning, visit Tortuga Bay and post lunch go to the highlands for Giant Tortoises and walk in the lava tunnel with a quick stop at Los Gremelos craters.
Day 3: Take a tour to North Seymour Island or Bartolome Island (we recommend doing North Seymour) or go diving at Gordon Rocks. Afternoon you can again visit Tortuga Bay or just walk along Darwin Bay (the main street of Puerto Ayora)
Day 4: Go to Las Grietas in the morning and take the afternoon ferry to Isabela
Day 5: Morning hike to Sierra Negra and afternoon snorkelling at Concha Perla. If you want to avoid Sierra Negra hiking, you can do morning snorkelling at Concha Perla and then bike to Wall of Tears
Day 6: Morning tour of Los Tunnels and evening enjoy sunset โ also spend some time in Isabela’s town square
Day 7: Morning snorkelling at Concha Perla and afternoon choose between Las Tintoreras or biking to Wall of Tears
Day 8: Morning ferry back to Santa Cruz and fly out in the afternoon
Most recommended itinerary for Galapagos – 10 days: 4N Santa Cruz + 3N Isabela + 3N San Cristobal
Day 1: Arrive at Baltra, the afternoon at Charles Darwin Research Station and Tortoise Breeding Centre
Day 2: In the morning, visit Tortuga Bay and post lunch go to the highlands for Giant Tortoises and walk in the lava tunnel with a quick stop at Los Gremelos craters.
Day 3: Take a tour to North Seymour Island or Bartolome Island (we recommend doing North Seymour) or go diving at Gordon Rocks. Afternoon you can again visit Tortuga Bay or just walk along Darwin Bay (the main street of Puerto Ayora)
Day 4: Go to Las Grietas in the morning and take the afternoon ferry to Isabela
Day 5: Morning hike to Sierra Negra and afternoon snorkelling at Concha Perla. If you want to avoid Sierra Negra hiking, you can do morning snorkelling at Concha Perla and then bike to Wall of Tears
Day 6: Morning tour of Los Tunnels and evening enjoy sunset โ also spend some time in Isabela’s town square
Day 7: Morning snorkelling at Concha Perla or Las Tintoreras tour and afternoon ferry back to Santa Cruz
Day 8: Ferry to San Cristobal from Santa Cruz in the morning. Post lunch, Tijeratas snorkelling and then chill on Punta Carola beach, stop off at Playa Mann for a swimย
Day 9: Tour 360 (full day)
Day 10: La Loberia snorkelling in the morning and Playa Baquerizo in the afternoon. Also, watch the sunset from the Lover’s Beach of Punta Carola
Day 11: Fly out of San Cristobal
Where to stay in Galapagos :
Santa Cruz:
We stayed in Villa Laguna which is a really good option. Near to the main dock where you need to go for inter-island ferries. There is a lovely lagoon opposite to our hotel. Rooms are clean and spacious, good breakfast and also have a pool.
El Arco de Darwin is also a very good budget-friendly option
El Descano del Guia is a mid-range option with a great view from the rooftop
Finch Bay for luxury and the best one for sure
Isabela:
We stayed in La Laguna which is a very good option. Right opposite to the Flamingo lagoon where you can spot flamingos. This place is very close to the main beach with amazing staffs and very good food. They also have a jacuzzi. Rooms are just perfect.
Hotel Punta Arenas is also a very good budget friendly option
Iguana Crossing for luxury
San Cristobal
There is a lovely AirBnB with all amenities and clean spacious rooms
Hostel Terito for budget travellers
Hotel Indigo for luxury
Where to eat in Galapagos :
Santa Cruz:
Angermeyer Waterfront Inn: Offers seafood specialties with stunning ocean views. They have vegetarian options like pasta primavera or vegetable stir-fry.
Garrapata Restaurant: Known for its local flavours and fresh seafood dishes. They also serve vegetarian options like veggie wraps and salads.
Il Giardino: An Italian restaurant with vegetarian-friendly options like pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh salads.
Isabela Island:
Casa Rosada: Offers a mix of seafood and Ecuadorian cuisine. They usually have vegetarian options like vegetable paella or stuffed peppers.
Booby Trap: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and seafood dishes. They also have vegetarian options like veggie burgers or pasta primavera.
Vegetarian Options:
Coco Surf: A beachfront cafe with vegetarian-friendly options like smoothie bowls, salads, and vegetarian sandwiches.
Local Markets: Look for fresh fruits, nuts, and locally grown vegetables to create your vegetarian meals.
San Cristobal Island:
El Descanso Marinero: Offers seafood dishes and some vegetarian options like vegetable curry or stuffed peppers.
El Eden: Known for its traditional Ecuadorian cuisine. They offer vegetarian options like lentil stew or vegetable soup.
Vegetarian Options:
Galapagos Deli: Offers vegetarian sandwiches, wraps, and salads.
Local Eateries: Look for places serving rice and beans, plantains, and fresh salads which often cater to vegetarians.
Across all islands, it’s a good idea to inquire about vegetarian options as many restaurants are willing to accommodate dietary preferences. Additionally, taking advantage of the fresh produce available in local markets is a great way to enjoy vegetarian meals while exploring the Galapagos.
Packing guide for Galapagos :
- Lightweight, breathable clothing: T-shirts, shorts, light pants, and long-sleeved shirts for sun protection.
- Swimwear: Bring a couple of swimsuits for snorkelling and beach activities.
- Waterproof/windproof jacket: Especially if you’re visiting during the wetter season (December to May).
- Comfortable walking/hiking shoes: Waterproof, sturdy footwear for island treks and trails.
- Sandals/water shoes: For beach outings and wet landings during excursions.
- Sun protection gear: Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and reef-safe sunscreen (more than 50 SPF)
- Daypack or waterproof backpack: For carrying essentials during excursions.
- Dry bags or waterproof pouches: To protect electronics and other valuables during water activities.
- Prescription medications: Ensure you have an adequate supply.
- Personal toiletries: Biodegradable soap, shampoo, and other eco-friendly products.
- Reusable water bottle: To stay hydrated during activities.
Gear for Activities:
- Snorkelling gear: Mask, snorkel, and fins. Some tours provide these, but having your own ensures better fit and hygiene.
- Underwater camera: Waterproof camera or a protective case for capturing marine life while snorkelling.
- Binoculars: For birdwatching and observing wildlife from a distance.
- Insect repellent: Though the islands don’t have many mosquitoes, it’s handy for certain areas.
Miscellaneous:
- Cash: While there are ATMs, having cash (in USD) can be useful for small purchases or in remote areas.
- Universal travel adapters/converters: If your devices require them (Ecuador uses 120V outlets).
Things you cant forget when in Galapagos :
Bring money in US dollars, which is the main currency in the Galapagos Islands
There are a limited number of ATMs on the islands. Santa Cruz or San Cristobal Island is the best place to withdraw money for the trip. Only major hotels and certain shops accept credit cards, so it’s a good idea to carry cash for all purchases
Get a Claro SIM card from mainland Ecuador because not all networks work properly on islands like Isabela. We had Clara and it worked great
Learn Spanish! At least some basics like “gracias” (thank you), “por favor” (please) and “como estas?” (How are you?), ‘entrada’ (entrance), ‘Salida’ (exit), ‘banos’ (toilet), “Buenos Dias” (good morning)
Water conditions between islands can be rough, remember to bring seasickness medicine! Even if you don’t usually get seasick, it’s best to be prepared for rough conditions. Eat light before the inter-island ferries
Do not take anything from the country as a souvenir, e.g. shells, native wood, volcanic rocks, etc.
You must be accompanied by an authorized naturalist guide from the Galapagos National Park when you visit the reserve.
Keep at least 2 meters (6 feet) away from wild animals – that means no eating or touching!
Avoid shooting with lightning, as it can speed up wildlife
Book your inter-island ferry tickets at least one day prior and reach the boarding point right on time
For tours, you can book once you reach the island as it gives you more options and a lot of better deals as not every tour operator has own website โ hence one who have charges extra
How much it can cost :
Now letโs answer the elephant in the room. BUDGET for Galapagos Islands. We have booked our trip with Ecuatravelling and had most of things covered.
However let us break down the cost if you want to do a 10 day land based tour of Galapagos island as per the itinerary we recommended.
Remember, we have not done this 10 day tour- hence some of the tour costs are as we got to know from other travellers โ hence it may differ as per the season, choice of food and stay you opt for.
Overall as ballpark, you can assume the below breakdown for pp
So here you have EVERYTHING you need.ย As closing remarks and if you have read so far, wanted to tell you that :
There are few places on earth that show how we can truly enjoy and protect wildlife sustainably, and the Galapagos Islands are one of the best examples. Galapagos is not for everyone, but if you have the chance, take it with open arms and you will remember it for life.
We have written a very similar extensive guide on planning a trip to arctic capital , Svalbard from India. Read it here
Want us to help you plan your trip? We would love to !! ย
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