The Galapagos Islands: Which Islands to Visit (Part 1)

If you love the outdoors, close encounters with wildlife, and holidays that don’t involve a lot of people, then a cruise in the Galapagos Islands might be the perfect vacation for you! The Galapagos Islands are a stunning archipelago of volcanic islands located in the Pacific Ocean, about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. They are famous for their unique and diverse wildlife, which inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. With so many islands to choose from it can be difficult to decide which ones to visit.

First, it is important to understand that the Galapagos Islands are divided into two main groups: the eastern islands and the western islands. The eastern islands are older and more eroded, with more lush vegetation and a more humid climate. The western islands are younger and more rugged, with volcanic landscapes and a drier climate.

When deciding which islands to visit, it’s important to consider your interests and travel style. If more developed and tourist-friendly destinations are more your thing, the eastern islands may be a better fit for you. If you’re interested in unique landscapes and more rugged adventures, the western islands may be more appealing to you.

To help break it down so that it’s not too much info at once, in this blog post we’ll take a look at the eastern islands, which include Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Floreana, and Española. Next week, we’ll do a follow-up post about the western islands Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, and Genovesa.

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Island is the hub of the Galapagos archipelago, where you'll find all kinds of amazing activities and attractions. Whether you're a nature lover, a beach bum, or a history buff, Santa Cruz has something for everyone to enjoy.

If you want to stretch your legs, start off by taking a stroll through the lush highlands, where you'll discover giant tortoises roaming free in their natural habitat. These gentle giants can live up to 150 years! Or for a short hike check out the Los Gemelos Trail, which leads you through a lush forest and volcanic craters.

Santa Cruz Island is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world Tortuga Bay, Playa Garrapatero, and Playa de los Alemanes, just to name a few. Imagine yourself lounging on the soft sand, surrounded by sparkling blue waters and tropical foliage. It's a paradise you'll never want to leave! For snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts there are a number of sites to explore, such as Seymour and Mosquera Islets, Punta Estrada, and North Seymour. Keep your eyes open for marine iguanas and playful sea lions.

Take a trip to the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you'll learn about the incredible research being done to protect the unique species of the Galapagos. Don't forget to visit the lava tunnels, where you'll get a glimpse into the geological history of the islands and the forces that shaped them.

San Cristobal

San Cristobal is the second most popular island and is known for its stunning beaches and water sports. This island is a treasure trove of excitement and discovery. If you're a lover of marine life, you'll be thrilled to know that San Cristobal is a haven for sea lions, sea turtles, and hammerhead sharks. Don your scuba gear and plunge into the depths to explore these fascinating creatures up close!

On land you'll discover a whole world of weird and wonderful creatures, from iguanas that swim in the sea to tortoises that weigh as much as a small car! The views are breathtaking, too, with towering cliffs and stunning beaches that are perfect for lazing in the sun.

If you're feeling adventurous, take a hike up to the top of the Cerro Tijeretas hill, where you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the island and the sea beyond. Or head to the Interpretation Center to learn about the history and ecology of the Galapagos Islands and how they've influenced the world we live in today.

Floreana

Even though Floreana is a smaller and less developed island, it is a little gem full of surprises and a rich history. Take a stroll through the abandoned ruins of the pirate hideaway known as Wittmer's Bungalow or hike up to the top of Asilo de la Paz for breathtaking views of the island and its surroundings.

Check out Post Office Bay, where sailors have been exchanging letters for centuries! It got its name thanks to Captain James Colnett, who installed a wooden barrel there in 1793 to serve sailors as a post office. Sailors would drop-off letters there, and another sailor, who would be headed back home would take the letter with them and deliver it to the recipient. Nowadays, the tradition is still alive, and tourists leave behind letters and postcards, with the hope that other tourists will take them back to their country.

Floreana Island is also home to some of the most colourful characters in the Galapagos. From bright pink flamingos to vibrant yellow warblers, the island is a rainbow of feathered friends. And let's not forget about the sea creatures - keep your eyes peeled for playful sea lions and curious sea turtles as you explore the rocky coastline.

Española

Española is the southernmost and oldest island in the archipelago. It is a true haven for all kinds of wildlife, from the charming blue-footed boobies to the majestic, waved albatross. You'll be amazed by the albatrosses elaborate mating dances and the vibrant colour of the blue-footed boobies, so have your camera ready!

Española is also home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Galapagos. Picture yourself strolling along the stunning white-sand beach at Gardner Bay, with the turquoise waters lapping at your feet and the sun warming your skin. Or imagine standing on the edge of the towering cliffs at Punta Suarez, watching as the waves crash against the rocks below. It's a scene straight out of a movie, and you'll feel like the star of your own adventure epic!

If you're feeling brave, why not take a dip in the waters at Gardner Islet, where you'll find yourself surrounded by playful sea lions and colourful fish at every turn? It's an underwater wonderland that will surely take your breath away.

Final Thoughts

Adventure, beauty, and discovery await at every turn no matter which islands you choose to visit in the Galapagos! For the trip itself, I personally recommend going on a smaller boat. The one I went on had a total of 15 people, which included the crew. That meant that every time we stopped at a new island (that was uninhabited) we were the only humans in sight! It’s a very special feeling to be surrounded by curious and unafraid wildlife. This is an adventure that I highly recommend to anyone who has a passion and great respect for nature.

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