Ecuador & The Galapagos Islands Things To Do

Straddling the equator and offering up some of the most memorable ecological experiences in the world, Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands house some of the planet’s most unique wildlife amid a striking, volatile landscape. Visitors to the archipelago usually arrive by air from mainland Ecuador, but end up slowing down the pace a bit with multiday Galapagos cruises, weaving between the islands and providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and excursions, including hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

The magnificent volcanic archipelago that is the Galapagos Islands is famed for its truly unique biodiversity. The string of 18 islands, surrounded by smaller islets, is quite isolated from any continent or major landmass—a distant 975km (525mi) west of the closest South American shore, Ecuador, to which the islands belong. And they are relatively new, a youthful 8 million years old.

The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, with something to offer every month of the year. The best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do, as well as your tolerance for the crowds.

High season follows the North American and European vacation schedule, running from June through August, and mid-December to through mid-January. Because this is the most convenient time for families to visit, make reservations well in advance. Don’t worry unduly about beaches being overcrowded, however; the national park allows only a limited number of visitors at one time, and itineraries are restricted.