Each of of the Galapagos Islands hosts a unique biodiversity. Need some help choosing which to visit?

  • The Western Islands

    ISABELA & FERNANDINA

    The largest and youngest of the Galápagos Islands, the less-visited western islands contain some of the archipelago’s largest colonies of birds and marine iguanas and boundless snorkelling opportunities. If you’re looking for wildlife, come here first.

    Things to do

    Hike to the caldera of Sierra Negra, a 1124m shield volcano

    Visit massive colonies of seabirds and marine iguanas

    Hike through lava fields and over black lava flows

    See the five largest volcanoes in the Galápagos

  • The Southern Islands

    FLOREANA & ESPAÑOLA

    The Southern Galápagos Islands are home to top-notch snorkelling and quirky tradition. Volcanic bays and unusual land formations provide shelter for a dazzling array of birds and fish, and the charming simplicity of Post Office Bay always raises a grin or two.

    Things to do

    Relax on white-sand beaches on Gardiner Bay or scale the volcanic landforms

    Post a letter and take one home from Post Office Bay, the visitor-supported hand-delivery mail system

    Discover exotic marine life at Isolte Champion, a snorkeller’s paradise

  • The Central Islands

    SANTIAGO, SANTA CRUZ & SURROUNDING ISLANDS

    The Galápagos’ central islands are perhaps the best spot from which to witness the full scope of the archipelago’s incredible natural diversity on the land and (with a snorkel) under the sea. While close together, each of these small islands has developed in isolation from its neighbours, spawning an amazing collection of plants and animals.

    Things to do

    Come face-to-face with 100-year-old Galápagos tortoises in Santa Cruz.

    Enjoy the view from Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé Island

    Explore hidden snorkelling spots and white- sand beaches on Santiago

    Swim with sea lions in the waters off North Seymour

  • The Northern Island

    GENOVESA

    It’s hard to tear your eyes away from the water in the Galápagos, but you’ll want to look skyward on Genovesa. Home to an amazing concentration of bird life, this tiny rock is no slouch under the waves either, boasting a rich variety of aquatic animals that rival their winged neighbours.

    Things to do

    Snorkel the sunken crater of a volcano while keeping an eye out for sea turtles and reef sharks

    Hike the trail that leads to El Barranco for a top-notch vantage point, passing massive colonies of seabirds along the way

    Explore the largest nesting colonies of red-footed boobies and frigatebirds

  • The Eastern Island

    SAN CRISTÓBAL

    An aquatic haven of biodiversity, you’ll find just about every kind of creature (including snorkellers and scuba divers) imaginable off San Cristóbal’s clear waters. The land and sky are equally amazing, too, playing host to colonies of boobies, frigatebirds and volcanic landscapes.

    Things to do

    Sail through mysterious Kicker Rock and dive

    Hike at Punta Pitt in search of three distinct species of booby

    Relax on the white-sand beaches of Cerro Brujo