Happening Now: La Cumbre Erupts on Fernandina Island (Updated)

As of Sunday, January 12, 2020, La Cumbre, the shield volcano located on Fernandina Island, is currently erupting. Fernandina is third largest of the Galápagos Islands and the youngest of the archipelago at less than a million years old. Update (1/15): According to the Galápagos National Park (PNG), an overhead flight yesterday evening confirmed that … Continue reading Happening Now: La Cumbre Erupts on Fernandina Island (Updated)

Top Snorkel Spots in the Galápagos Islands

No trip to the Galápagos Islands is complete without exploring the diversity of marine life below the surface. Most people don't realize that you will be snorkeling at least once a day when you are traveling via cruise, so make sure that you practice the basics and feel comfortable snorkeling if this is a new … Continue reading Top Snorkel Spots in the Galápagos Islands

Discount Flights to Ecuador in the $300s (While They Last)

Good news fellow bucket list-ers! A service that we follow, Scott's Cheap Flights, sent out an email notification TODAY that flights to Ecuador are on a major sale. Fares are currently at about 50% of their normal cost which means roundtrip fares as low as $300 for some lucky travelers! If you happen to live … Continue reading Discount Flights to Ecuador in the $300s (While They Last)

A Day Under $100: Isla Santa Cruz – Version C

In this version of our "A Day Under..." series, your itinerary includes a visit into the underground Tuneles near Bellavista, a stop at a private farm in the highlands and a visit to the remote Playa de Garrapatero, only accessible by private taxi hire. Now that we have that out of the way, here's our … Continue reading A Day Under $100: Isla Santa Cruz – Version C

A Day Under $75: Isla Santa Cruz – Version B

In this version of our "A Day Under..." series, your itinerary includes a self-paced tour of the Charles Darwin Research Station, animal spotting from the shore and piers near Academy Bay, a snorkel and beach stop with marine iguanas at Playa de la Estacion and a visit with the local (animal) fish purveyors at the … Continue reading A Day Under $75: Isla Santa Cruz – Version B

A Day Under $75: Isla Santa Cruz – Version A

In this version of our "A Day Under..." guides, you will hike through a forest of towering opuntia cacti perfect for birding, watch marine iguanas enjoy the surf and sand of Playa Brava, snorkel or kayak in Playa Mansa, learn about renewable energy initiatives on the islands at el Centro de Informacion de Energia Renovable … Continue reading A Day Under $75: Isla Santa Cruz – Version A

Which Islands Can I Visit?

If you decide to build your own land-based itinerary and customize your trip, you will be able to access the majority of the Galápagos Islands. While you can only stay overnight on four of the islands, you will have access to the vast majority of the archipelago via day trips from these inhabited islands. Below, … Continue reading Which Islands Can I Visit?

Accessibility in the Galápagos Islands

A Galápagos sea lion blocks the steps to the dry landing on Isla Bartolomé. It is common to find native residents obstructing sidewalks and trails, both in the port towns and at national park visitor sites.

Getting Around the Galápagos Islands

To read more about how to transfer to the city center based upon your arrival airport, check out our Landing in the Galápagos post for more details and specifics. Let's focus on what to expect once you've checked into your land accommodations and are looking to explore the city center. Getting around the City Centers … Continue reading Getting Around the Galápagos Islands

Budget Hack: Baltra Island to Santa Cruz Island Transfer

Feeling confident from the moment you land? Here’s a tip to maximize your money when staying on Santa Cruz, especially if you have a couple of friends with you to split a private taxi hire. If you are flying into Baltra Island and staying on Santa Cruz Island, plan to spend $20-25 per person (without … Continue reading Budget Hack: Baltra Island to Santa Cruz Island Transfer