The Best Time to Visit the Galapagos Islands—And How to Do It

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“Nowhere else in the world can animals be observed in the wild so intimately and so calmly,” says Damon. “Galapagos species have no fear of humans, providing an amazing opportunity to see their daily lives.” This is due to the fact that almost no humans have ever hunted on the islands, and for thousands of years, humans had never even stepped foot there. Now, humans visits are heavily regulated to protect the animals, so they have no reason to be afraid.

Gillmore agrees: “With the exception of migratory species, you will find most animals in their resident locations year-round.” Still, some fauna is easier to spot at certain times of year. If you want to see whales, visit between June and November, Gillmore says; to see the waved albatross, visit Española Island between April and November; and for a larger concentration of giant tortoises (there are always some around), visit the Santa Cruz highlands between August and March. Damon adds that the cooler season is better for observing penguins and whales, and is especially good for observing the blue-footed boobies’ mating displays.

How many days do I need to spend in the Galapagos as a first-timer? One week is an ideal amount of time for exploring the Galapagos, according to Gillmore. Seven nights on a boat will typically include visits to six to eight islands, she says, and because the Galapagos is “such an epic destination that is a bit of a trek to reach, I don’t recommend fewer than five nights in total, which can also be a combination of land and sea.”

How do I choose between a land-based or sea-based trip to the Galapagos? You may not realize it, but it is possible to visit the Galapagos without going on a cruise. When I visited in 2023, I stayed at Pikaia Lodge, a Relais & Chateaux hotel, and visited four different islands. I get seasick, so not having to sleep on a ship was the right choice for me. (Although I didn’t make it to the farther flung islands that take several days of sailing to reach.)

A main difference is that Galapagos cruises offer structured itineraries that allow seeing more islands and visitor sites, says Damon: “Cruise ships are not required to travel back to the same location every night so they are able to reach islands located farther from the main population centers and, with that, entirely new ecosystems.” On the other hand, land-based trips give you a different experience, he says. “You’re more in control of what you see and where you go, oftentimes allowing you to build your own itinerary as you see fit. You also have more interaction with the local island culture on a land-based trip.”

If giant land tortoises are on your list, consider spending some time on Santa Cruz Island. “While it’s possible to find giant tortoises in various locations around the archipelago, the best place to see them in the wild is in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island,” explains Gillmore. “Visit a reserve or stay at a lodge in tortoise territory to maximize your opportunities.”

When visiting the Galapagos for the first time, what should I do? The Galapagos are mostly all about animals, all the time—whether on land or in the water. You’ll see animals in guided land hikes, on beaches, in the sky, and by snorkeling or diving in the water. A good guide will take you to known animal hangouts. But to be honest, almost anyone can stumble upon some giant land tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions here. My highlights were snorkeling with Galapagos penguins, seeing baby blue-footed boobies, and observing the mating dance of frigate birds.

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The Best Time to Visit the Galapagos Islands—And How to Do It

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