What to do in the Galapagos Islands
Turtles & Tortoise Encounters:
Green Sea Turtles breed all year round, although are the most active during the hotter months between December and May, which is also when you are more likely to have the best chances to see nesting turtles. On Isabela Island, visit the Galapagos Tortoise Breeding Center to learn about the conservation efforts to protect the endangered tortoises.
Snorkel with Sea Lions
The Galapagos sea lion breeding season occurs mainly from July to December, but varies between islands. Swimming with them is best between the months of December to June when the seas are warmer and calmer, improving the visibility underwater. Interact with playful sea lions while snorkeling or swimming near the shore. They are curious and often join snorkelers in the water.
Island Hopping
Visit different islands to witness unique species and ecosystems; each island has its own distinct wildlife, from giant tortoises on Santa Cruz to blue-footed boobies on North Seymour. Explore the coastline by sea kayak to get close to wildlife, including marine iguanas, penguins, and sea lions, or explore the underwater world of the Galapagos to see a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, colorful fish, sharks, rays, and sea lions.
Birdwatching
The Galapagos Islands are a paradise for birdwatchers. Spot endemic and rare species like the Galapagos penguin, waved albatross, frigatebirds, and Darwin's finches. Migratory seabirds, such as the waved albatross, arrive in the Galapagos in April and depart in December. Here they perform their famous mating ritual and rear their chicks whilst on the islands. Similarly, the blue-footed boobies perform their mating rituals around the islands between May and July, and are a comical sight to see.