5-Day Family Adventure and Relaxation for Locals in Galapagos

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

5 days

Galapagos Islands
Darwin's Arch
Bartolome Island
Underwater Crater and Pinnacle Rock
Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido) in the Pacific Ocean, San Cristobal Island

About Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Experience the unparalleled beauty of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador - a UNESCO World Heritage site. This archipelago of volcanic islands offers a unique ecosystem teeming with diverse wildlife, many found nowhere else on Earth. Encounter giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and exotic bird species. Explore the islands' pristine beaches, lava tunnels, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. Enjoy guided tours to Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts. Cruise between islands for breathtaking views and unforgettable sunsets. The Galapagos Islands promise an extraordinary adventure filled with nature's wonders, making it a must-visit destination for eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Santa Cruz Island

Morning

Start your day with a guided tour to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Learn about the unique species of the Galapagos and the conservation efforts to preserve them.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty of the island. Try local delicacies like ceviche and empanadas.

Afternoon

Take a boat ride to Tortuga Bay. Spend the afternoon exploring the white sandy beaches and swimming with the marine life.

Dinner

Have a family dinner at a local restaurant. Try the fresh seafood, a specialty of the region.

Evening

Relax by the beach, watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Morning

Visit the highlands of Santa Cruz. Explore the Lava Tunnels and see the giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch in the highlands, surrounded by lush greenery and unique wildlife.

Afternoon

Take a boat ride to Seymour Island. Enjoy bird watching and observe the fascinating blue-footed boobies and frigate birds.

Dinner

Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant. Try the traditional Ecuadorian dish, encebollado.

Evening

Stargaze under the clear Galapagos sky, a perfect end to the day.

Morning

Start the day with a visit to the Sierra Negra Volcano. Hike to the crater for a breathtaking view.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch while admiring the panoramic views of the island.

Afternoon

Visit the Tintoreras Islets. Snorkel with sea lions, turtles, and colorful tropical fish.

Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant. Try the local dish, llapingachos.

Evening

Relax on the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.

Morning

Explore the Wetlands of Isabela Island. Spot flamingos, pintail ducks, and common stilts.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch in the wetlands, surrounded by unique flora and fauna.

Afternoon

Visit the Wall of Tears. Learn about the history of this monument and enjoy the scenic views.

Dinner

Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant. Try the traditional Ecuadorian dish, seco de chivo.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the cool evening breeze.

Morning

Visit the El Chato Tortoise Reserve. Learn about these fascinating creatures and their conservation.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty of the reserve.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at Las Grietas. Swim in the clear water between two cliffs.

Dinner

Have your last dinner at a local restaurant. Try the traditional Ecuadorian dish, cuy.

Evening

Relax on the beach, reminiscing about the wonderful experiences of the past five days.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Charles Darwin Research Station

1
Charles Darwin Research Station

A biological research station and museum dedicated to the preservation of the Galapagos Islands' ecosystem.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Tortuga Bay

2
Tortuga Bay

A stunning white sand beach that is also a nesting site for marine turtles.

Beaches
Nature
Lava Tunnels

3
Lava Tunnels

A network of underground tunnels formed by lava flows. Visitors can walk through these tunnels for a unique and fascinating geological experience.

Attractions
Tours
Seymour Island

4
Seymour Island

An uninhabited island known for its large colonies of birds, including frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies. Visitors can take guided tours to observe the wildlife and learn about the island's geology.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Sierra Negra Volcano

5
Sierra Negra Volcano

One of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos, known for its large caldera. Hiking tours offer breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape.

Attractions
Nature
Tours
Tintoreras Islets

6
Tintoreras Islets

A group of small islets filled with wildlife like the Galapagos penguin, sea lions, and white-tipped reef sharks. It's a popular spot for snorkeling and boat tours.

Attractions
Nature
Tours
Wetlands of Isabela Island

7
Wetlands of Isabela Island

A complex of trails leading through mangroves, lagoons, and swamps. It's home to a variety of bird species and offers excellent opportunities for bird-watching and photography.

Attractions
Parks
Tours
Wall of Tears

8
Wall of Tears

A massive wall built by prisoners from the penal colony that existed on Isabela Island from 1945-1959. It's a poignant reminder of the island's history and a popular spot for hiking.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
El Chato Tortoise Reserve

9
El Chato Tortoise Reserve

A reserve where you can see giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

Attractions
Nature
Tours
Las Grietas

10
Las Grietas

A geological formation perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff diving.

Attractions
Beaches
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Ceviche

Ceviche

A popular dish in the Galapagos Islands made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with ají, chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Encocado

Encocado

A traditional Ecuadorian dish made with fish or seafood cooked in a sauce of coconut milk, onions, bell peppers, and spices, often served with rice.

Locro de Papa

Locro de Papa

A rich, hearty potato soup that is a classic Ecuadorian dish. It's often served with avocado and cheese.

Empanadas de Viento

Empanadas de Viento

These are large cheese empanadas that puff up when they are fried, hence the name 'wind empanadas'. They are a popular snack in the Galapagos Islands.

Seco de Chivo

Seco de Chivo

A traditional Ecuadorian stew made with goat meat, garlic, cumin, achiote, and beer. It's often served with rice and fried plantains.

Churrasco Ecuatoriano

Churrasco Ecuatoriano

A popular dish in Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands, consisting of a grilled steak served with rice, fries, eggs, and salad.

Encebollado

Encebollado

A hearty fish soup that is considered a national dish of Ecuador. It's made with yuca, onion, tomato, and tuna or other fresh fish.

Guatita

Guatita

A traditional Ecuadorian dish made with potatoes and tripe cooked in a peanut sauce. It's a popular comfort food in the Galapagos Islands.

Canelazo

Canelazo

A warm alcoholic beverage popular in the Andean highlands of Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands. It's made from aguardiente (sugar cane alcohol), sugar, and water boiled with cinnamon.

Chicha de Jora

Chicha de Jora

A traditional Andean drink made from fermented corn. It's a popular beverage in the Galapagos Islands.

Morochas

A traditional Ecuadorian dessert made from corn, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. It's a popular sweet treat in the Galapagos Islands.

Helado de Paila

Helado de Paila

A traditional Ecuadorian ice cream made in a large bronze pan, often with local fruits. It's a popular dessert in the Galapagos Islands.

Best time to visit

The Galapagos Islands can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you're hoping to see. The warm season from December to May is great for bird watching and marine wildlife, with calmer seas and warmer waters. However, the cooler season from June to November, although marked by a bit more cloud cover and occasional drizzle, is the best time for diving and spotting aquatic species due to the increased ocean productivity. So, it really depends on your personal preferences and interests.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 12

Mon

Carnival

February 13

Tue

Carnival

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 3

Fri

Day off for Labor Day / May Day

May 24

Fri

The Battle of Pichincha

August 9

Fri

Day off for Independence Day

August 10

Sat

Independence Day

October 9

Wed

Independence of Guayaquil

October 11

Fri

Day off for Independence of Guayaquil

October 31

Thu

Day off for All Souls' Day

November 4

Mon

Day off for Independence of Cuenca

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The most common way to reach the Galapagos Islands is by air. There are two airports in the Galapagos, one on Baltra Island and the other on San Cristobal Island. Flights to the Galapagos are typically routed through Quito or Guayaquil on the mainland of Ecuador.

Once you're in the Galapagos, inter-island travel is typically done by boat. There are daily ferries that connect the inhabited islands of Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana. The boat rides can be a bit rough, so it's recommended to take seasickness medication if you're prone to it.

Tour boats are a popular way to see the Galapagos Islands. These boats range in size and comfort level, and they typically offer multi-day itineraries that include guided tours, meals, and accommodations. This is a great way to see a variety of islands and wildlife in the Galapagos.

Biking is a popular way to get around on the individual islands, especially on Isabela Island where there are several bike rental shops. It's a great way to explore at your own pace and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Many of the attractions in the Galapagos are best explored on foot. There are numerous hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, secluded beaches, and wildlife viewing spots. Just remember to stay on the marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystem.

Taxis are available on the inhabited islands of the Galapagos. They are typically pick-up trucks, and they can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with a lot of gear. However, keep in mind that distances can be quite long, so it's best to negotiate a price before you set off.

On Santa Cruz Island, there is a bus service that runs from the airport on Baltra Island to the ferry dock. This is the most economical way to get from the airport to the main town of Puerto Ayora.

Ridesharing services are not common in the Galapagos Islands. Most transportation needs can be met with taxis, buses, and boats.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 131; Fire: 102; Police: 101

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Galapagos Islands, Ecuador as a first time visitor

1

The Galapagos Islands are located about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador.

2

The official currency of Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands, is the U.S. dollar.

3

Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

4

The Galapagos Islands operate on Ecuador Time, which is GMT -6.

5

The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate. The warm season (December to May) averages 86°F (30°C) and the cool season (June to November) averages 75°F (24°C).

6

The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a national park, so there are strict rules about where visitors can go and what they can do.

7

You will need to pay a $100 park fee upon arrival in the Galapagos Islands.

8

You must be accompanied by a certified Galapagos National Park guide when visiting most sites within the park.

9

It's important to respect the wildlife. Keep a safe distance, do not feed the animals, and do not touch or disturb them.

10

There are no direct international flights to the Galapagos Islands. You will need to fly into mainland Ecuador first, either to Quito or Guayaquil, and then take a domestic flight to the islands.

11

There are two airports in the Galapagos Islands: one on Baltra Island and one on San Cristobal Island.

12

The Galapagos Islands are made up of 13 main islands and dozens of smaller islets and rocks.

13

There are only four inhabited islands where tourists can stay: Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana.

14

The Galapagos Islands are famous for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.

15

The water temperature varies throughout the year, ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 84°F (29°C). If you plan to snorkel or dive, you may want to bring or rent a wetsuit.

16

There is no cell phone service on most of the islands, and internet access is limited and often slow.

17

Healthcare facilities are limited on the islands. It's recommended to have travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

18

The sun is very strong due to the islands' location on the equator. Be sure to bring and regularly apply high-SPF sunscreen.

19

Tap water is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water.

20

The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what wildlife you want to see, as different species have different mating and breeding seasons.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

Communicating lack of understanding

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

Don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

Ban-yo

Looking for a bathroom

Help

Ayuda

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Food

Comida

Co-mee-da

Looking for food

Water

Agua

A-gua

Looking for water

Hotel

Hotel

O-tel

Looking for a hotel

Taxi

Taxi

Taxi

Looking for a taxi

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

Asking for the price

I would like...

Me gustaría...

Me gus-ta-ree-a

Making a request

Good night

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Water shoes

  • Hiking shoes

  • Rain jacket

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Beach towel

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (USD)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and adapter

  • Camera

  • Extra memory cards

  • Binoculars

  • Headphones

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Books or e-reader for downtime

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Ziplock bags for wet clothes

  • Backpack for day trips

  • Biodegradable wet wipes

  • Travel-sized hand sanitizer

Weather Conditions

The Galapagos Islands, located in Ecuador, experience a unique climate that is primarily influenced by the ocean currents. The weather here can be divided into two main seasons - the warm season and the dry season. The warm season typically runs from December to May. During this period, you can expect temperatures to range from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). The weather is generally hot and humid with frequent rain showers. This is also the time when the sea is at its warmest, making it ideal for snorkeling and swimming. However, the high humidity might make hiking and other land-based activities a bit uncomfortable. The dry season, from June to November, sees cooler temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The weather during this period is cooler and drier with occasional mist or drizzle, known locally as "garua". The sea is cooler too, but the visibility underwater is at its best, making it a great time for diving. The cooler weather also makes it comfortable for hiking and exploring the islands. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack for varying weather conditions. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for the warm season, while a light jacket or sweater may be needed for the cooler, dry season. Always pack a rain jacket or poncho, as rain showers can occur unexpectedly. Don't forget your sun protection - the equatorial sun can be strong year-round. Remember, the Galapagos Islands are a protected national park, so it's important to respect the local wildlife and environment. Always follow the guidance of park rangers and tour guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

30° / 22°

January is the start of the warm season in Galapagos, with occasional rainfall and calm seas. It's a great time for snorkeling and bird watching.

February

31° / 24°

February is one of the warmest months, with clear skies and warm waters. It's the peak season for marine life, making it perfect for diving and snorkeling.

March

32° / 24°

March is the hottest month in Galapagos, with high humidity and occasional rain showers. It's a great time to see marine iguanas, sea turtles, and land birds.

April

30° / 24°

April experiences a gradual cooling trend, with less rainfall and calmer seas. It's a good time to see the hatching of giant tortoises and land iguanas.

May

28° / 22°

May marks the beginning of the dry season in Galapagos, with cooler temperatures and misty mornings. It's a great time for hiking and observing bird mating rituals.

June

26° / 20°

June is the coolest month, with frequent mist and drizzle. It's the best time to see the migration of whales and dolphins.

July

25° / 19°

July is characterized by cool temperatures, strong winds, and rough seas. It's a good time to see bird nesting activities, especially the blue-footed boobies.

August

24° / 18°

August is the coolest month, with strong winds and rough seas. It's a great time to see sea lions, as it's their breeding season.

September

24° / 18°

September is characterized by cool temperatures, strong winds, and rough seas. It's a good time to see penguins and sea birds.

October

25° / 19°

October experiences a slight warming trend, with less wind and calmer seas. It's a great time to see sea lion pups and bird courtship rituals.

November

28° / 20°

November marks the beginning of the warm season, with increasing temperatures and occasional rain showers. It's a good time to see sea lion pups and marine life.

December

29° / 21°

December is characterized by warm temperatures, clear skies, and calm seas. It's a great time for snorkeling and observing the nesting of giant tortoises.

Did you know?

Did you know that the Galapagos Islands are home to the only penguin species that lives north of the equator in the wild?

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Santa Cruz Island

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San Cristobal Island

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