Which Galapagos Islands should I visit?

Every island in the Galapagos archipelago is unique and wonderful, with breathtaking vistas and remarkable wildlife. Not all the islands are open for visitors to land on, to protect their priceless habitats, but even these often provide stunning coastlines with wonderful birdlife that can be explored by boat.

Here are some of our highlights of the islands in Galapagos:

Genovesa

A paradise for bird-lovers, with opportunities to see a wide variety of species, including red-footed boobies. Stunning cliff-top views and tidal pools, home to friendly sea lions.

Fernandina

The youngest Galapagos island, Fernandina has stunning volcanic landscapes and is home only to unique, native species. See marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, Galapagos flightless cormorants, and Galapagos sea lions.

North Seymour

The arid vegetation of North Seymour is home to land and marine iguanas, and has perfect nesting conditions for frigate birds and blue-footed boobies.

Floreana

Famous for its colorful human history, Floreana was the first Galapagos island to be permanently inhabited. A high point is to visit Post Office Bay, where you can continue the tradition of sending and delivering letters left in a barrel since 1793.

Bartholomew

Bartholomew (or Bartolome) is renowned for providing the most stunning views in Galapagos. As well as snorkeling with penguins and sea lions, you can take in the magnificent Pinnacle Rock - perhaps the most photographed and filmed landmark on the archipelago.

Isabela

You could follow in Charles Darwin's footsteps with a visit to Darwin Lake at Tagus Cove, steeped in buccaneer history. Wonderful snorkeling here, and many sea bird species.

South Plaza

South Plaza boasts a remarkable cactus forest and the only place on earth where the Galapagos hybrid iguana exists. A great place to spoke tropicbirds, nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies and many other species. 

Espanola

The oldest island in the Galapagos, Espanola is a haven for bird life, with sea birds adorning its towering cliffs that rise from the crashing surf. It's also home to the unique and critically endangered Galapagos waved albatross, whose beautiful mating dance can be observed here.