Galapagos Tours & Holidays 2024 / 2025

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Explore the imposing Kicker Rock

Kicker Rock, otherwise known as Leon Dormido, is one of the most sought after sights of any Galapagos Island tour. The remains of an extinct volcanic cone eroded over hundreds of years into the shape of a lion, it stands 152m above the Pacific Ocean, and is an absolute snorkelling hot spot. Two hours northwest from San Cristobal Island, the site can only be visited by boat. Two walls of monolithic volcanic ash tower over you, and birds of all shapes and sizes call out, swooping over and around as far as the eye can see. But the true magic and beauty occurs beneath the surface. The natural erosion of this ancient cone has formed a channel between the rocks that has cultivated the perfect habitat for Galapagos sharks, whitetip sharks, huge rays, pelagic and reef fish, sea turtles and sea lions. A paradise within a paradise, Kicker Rock is a Galapagos MUST-DO.
See the Galapagos’ famous giant tortoises at Santa Cruz Island

The life of a Galapagos Tortoise seems pretty uncomplicated right? Grazing on grass, sometimes leaves and on special occasions, cactus, these gentle giants spend their days basking in the sun, napping (for nearly 16 hours per day), and generally being super cool. It’s no coincidence that the Spanish word for tortoise is Galapago. Back in 1535 when Spanish sailors discovered the archipelago, they named the islands after the abundant amount of tortoises they discovered. Weighing up to 270kgs and living to over 100 years old, these creatures are a breathtaking site best discovered in their natural habitat at “El Chato Tortoise Reserve” on Santa Cruz Island.
Go snorkelling and take a wildlife kayaking adventure on Isabela Island

Snorkelling and kayaking are pretty fun activities, so what better place to experience underwater life than kayaking/snorkelling you way around Isabela Island? The archipelago and its surrounding waters, are located where three ocean currents converge, resulting in species that don’t exist anywhere else in the world. Whales, dolphins and sea lions play in the waters here, plus Galapagos penguins and even the rare Flightless Cormorant.
Visit Tortuga Bay and take a hike to a secluded beach

A visit to Tortuga Bay brings a little of the Bahamas vibe to your Galapagos adventure. The islands are volcanoes after all, so much of the landscape is more rugged rock then golden sands. But Tortuga Bay Beach offers you the white-sand beauty you’re after, and is a rival to any of Latin America’s sweeping sands. Swim, surf or sunbathe here; it’s the perfect place to take a moment to digest all of the amazing experiences you have seen up until now.
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island

Without Charles Darwin, the Galapagos would not be what it is today, it’s as simple as that. In 1835, Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos and was so amazed by the creatures he saw, he set up base to study of the origins of life. Decades later Darwin drew on his experiences when penning his landmark theory of evolution by natural selection. What does this have to do with visiting the Galapagos? Well, after Darwin’s discoveries and theories were published, many more scientists were eager to study here, and a Research Station was founded to maintain the integrity island at heart. Today, over 200 scientists and volunteers are involved with research and conservation efforts, the most well known of which involves a captive breeding program for giant tortoises.
See the famous Sea Lions at San Cristobal Island

The wide horseshoe bay of San Cristobal Island is the perfect setting for a sea lion gathering of epic proportions. Flippers fly, bellies flop, tails twists and snouts turn in a display of affection that will keep you captivated for hours. Set amongst a gorgeous backdrop of pastel-painted, corrugated iron-roofed houses, San Cristobal is a sea lion utopia. But the slippery mammal loving doesn’t stop there. To step it up a notch, and get even closer to these characters of the sea, take a Stand-Up-Paddle (SUP) Board to further explore the tiny coves these creatures call home. Not accessible by foot, the nooks and crannies that occupy the Bay’s coastline are a perfect place to really get acquainted with your new furry friends.
Chill with the Sharks and Marine Iguanas of Santa Cruz Island

Another reason to add a visit to the Galapagos to the top of your bucket list, is a peek into prehistoric life on Santa Cruz Island. While the entire archipelago is famed for its status as the world’s best nature loving utopia, one of the species that owes the islands this title is the Marine Iguana.These dragon like creatures cluster together on the rocks of Santa Cruz Island, catching rays to warm the blood that runs beneath their black, leathery skin. Hanging with (basically) dinosaurs not enough excitement for you? How about playing with sharks? The waters around Santa Cruz Island are teeming with fish, making this a feeding refuge for the (harmless) reef sharks and hammerheads who patrol here.
Explore the Volcanic peaks of San Cristobal Island

A stark volcanic landscape give islands like San Cristobal, an almost moon-like feeling. Equally as impressive as the wildlife that makes the Galapagos famous, these volcanic landscapes and geology make life on these islands so unique. There truly is no better way to experience the awesome power of nature than to hike up to a volcanic peak. One of the most active volcanic areas on the planet, staring into a 100m deep crater on San Cristobal Island, and following the groves of thick blankets of old lava, brings a whole new meaning to adventure.
Savour the cute cafes of Santa Cruz Island

To top off the wealth of wildlife experiences you’re going to be having, the Galapagos Islands have a number of quirky café’s and restaurants to insatiate your cultural needs. With a population of 25,000, the Galápagos has its fair share of foodie hotspots. The most popular are those found in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island. Good tunes, cool breezes and mouth watering Ecuadorian dishes make the perfect end to an already perfect Galapagos Island Trip.

Things to do in Galapagos

Maprae Museo
Santa Cruz Island

The newest museum to open its doors on the Galápagos Islands, Maprae (Augmented Reality Museum of Pre-Columbian Art) showcases 55 archeological pieces that tell the story of Santa Cruz and its inhabitants. To understand a place, one must understand its people, and Maprae tells the story of continental Ecuadorian history in the remoteness of the Galapagos Islands, in the most wonderful way.
Galeria Aymara
Santa Cruz Island

A gallery showcasing all of the very best work from local artisans including jewellery, handicrafts, textiles, metal works and artwork. It’s the perfect slow afternoon activity to counteract what can be an overwhelming assault of adrenaline experiences. Maybe you’ll come away with a souvenir unique enough to match your Galapagos Island Trip.
The Charles Darwin Research Station
Santa Cruz Island

Charles Darwin has undoubtedly left his mark on the Galápagos Islands. After all without him, the tale of the Galapagos’ past might have been written with a very different ending. One lesson that is a testament to the success of The Galapagos in its journey to conserve, is that to put the good of all species before the good of one, is the most important task we have as human beings. Charles Darwin is a huge part of this legacy, and his research centre can lay testament to that.
Galápagos National Park Interpretation Centre
San Cristobal Island

The supreme Galapagos National Park covers more than 7,500 square km’s, but only 1% is accessible to visitors. To get a full understanding of the sheer effort it takes to protect this enormous but diverse slice of the planet, a visit to the Interpretation Centre on San Cristobal Island is a must. The museum goes through the natural and human history of the islands, chronologically narrating the most significant events, finally exposing the problems and struggles the people face to conserve their beloved Galapagos.

Top Museums in the Galapagos Islands

While giant tortoises and marine iguanas are the first things that spring to mind when you catch yourself dreaming of a trip to the Galápagos Islands, wildlife isn’t the only thing on the agenda when you visit here. There are a number of museums scattered across the inhabited parts that focus on the anthropological background of the Ecuadorian archipelago. Along with a smattering of local art, these museums give you an insight into the people behind the conservation of the world’s most diverse ecosystem.

Ceviche (local delicacy)
Ceviche is a South American take on sashimi. Almost every country with a coastline has its own version and the ingredients change with availability, but at the heart of the recipe is seafood ‘cooked’ or marinated in acidic juices. In Ecuador, and thus the Galapagos, ceviche comes in more of a soup like form. Raw chopped seafood and red onion is marinated in lime or lemon juice. The seafood is commonly made with shrimp or fish, but the main ingredient can also be any number of shellfish. And the key to success? It has to be fresh! This regional delicacy is served in a bowl with the “Leche de Tigre” water or sauce in which it was prepared, and is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy and spicy.

_{Best eaten at
Il Giardino, Charles Darwin y Charles Binford, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island}
Quinoa Locro (local favourite soup)
The highlands of Ecuador are known for their hearty soups and one in particular is a crowd favourite - Quinoa Locro, a staple in the Ecuadorian diet. Said to fix any ailment or problem, locals turn to this dish whenever they’re in need of some comfort. Made with quinoa, potatoes, cheese, milk, onions, garlic, tomato, cumin, oregano, achiote, and topped with cilantro and avocado, you can feel that Ecuadorian goodness in every spoonful.

_{Best eaten at
La Garrapata Galapagos, Av. Charles Darwin y Tomas de Berlanga, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island}
Ice Cream
With the abundance of fresh and unusual fruits available on the Galápagos Islands, ice cream is a staple local favourite that gives even Italian gelato a run for its money. This Ecuadorian treat is made with exotic varieties of fruit not commonly found outside of the tropics, like citrusy naranjilla and sweet but tart guanabana. Rich, creamy and bursting with flavour, Galapagos ice cream tastes so good because it is made with REAL crushed fruit. We can see you licking your lips from here…

_{Best eaten at}
_{Galapagos Deli, Tomas de Berlanga y Avenida Baltra Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island}
Fish Tacos
The not-so-humble fish taco, these tasty treats consist of a warm tortilla filled with crispy fish and topped with cool, crunchy slaw. And what takes our beloved fish taco to the next level? The freshness of the fish of course, which the Galapagos has no shortage of. Especially welcome after a long day spent in the scorching Ecuadorian sun, your salty lips will thank us.

_{Best eaten at}
_{Booby Trap, Antonio Gil Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island}
Street Seafood
Do as the locals do and head to Los Kioskos in Puerto Ayora, for an outdoor dining experience like no other. With seafood as fresh and plentiful as any tropical coastal paradise, it is heavily featured on menus across the Galapagos and best of all, it’s cheap. You’ll find white fish options like sea bass, tilapia and halibut, and local specialties like red and green spiny lobsters. The aromatic smells of freshly grilled seafood fill the shops lining Calle de Los Kioskos, making the hardest part picking just one plate to eat.

_{Best eaten at}
_{Los Kioskos, Charles Binford, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island}

Food in the Galapagos Islands

Frequently overshadowed by the animal attractions, food in the Galapagos is as mesmerising as swimming with sea turtles through Kicker Rock, and no trip to the Galápagos Islands would be complete without tasting what this archipelago has to offer. You’re probably thinking that fresh seafood is really all that’s available, considering you’re in the richest marine eco-system in the world, but fear not foodie fanatics - the Galapagos draws a lot of influence (and ingredients) from its Ecuadorian mainland. Just as the isolation from the mainland allowed unique species to evolve, this means that a great deal of the food consumed has to be brought in. Prepare your palate for a traditional Ecuadorian feast, with a Galapagos Island twist.

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