Galapagos Islands

Lying directly on the equator, about 1,000km off the coast of Ecuador, is an extremely remote archipelago of islands and islets called the Galapagos. Celebrated not only for the abundance and diversity of its wildlife, the Galapagos also has a remarkable amount of endemic species that can be found nowhere else on earth. In fact, 95% of the species discovered by Charles Darwin on his historic visit in 1835, still remain present on the islands today.

Their remote location, unusual natural history and geographical position, at the confluence of three major oceanic currents, are the reasons why the Galapagos Islands have emerged as such a unique wildlife destination. Giant tortoises, Marine iguana, Blue-footed boobies and Sally lightfoot crabs are among the most well-known of the islands’ fearless creatures, but there are thousands of other birds, animals and plants that can only be seen on a visit to the Galapagos. And, it is the opportunity to see so many of these rare creatures in such close proximity, that makes a visit to the Galapagos Islands a truly unforgettable experience.

The archipelago consists of six main islands: Isabela, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Santiago and Fernandina – the latter two of which remain uninhabited. In addition, there are 12 smaller islands and around 40 tiny islets that can only be visited by boat. Of the 128 named islands in the archipelago Isabela is the largest at 4,588 km2 and Darwin the smallest at only 1.1 km2. Most of the islands are actually summits of volcanoes submerged below the ocean, and due to its volcanic nature and relative youth (in geological terms) the archipelago is continuously changing.

For a very different perspective, our Gentle Walking Ecuador and Galapagos Safari stays in scenic accommodation on three different islands giving you the opportunity not only to discover the amazing wildlife and landscapes of the islands on foot, but also to gain an understanding of the culture and history of the communities that have made the Galapagos their home. This holiday begins on mainland Ecuador with an excellent variety of walks to reveal the beautiful scenery and absorbing culture of Quito and the Otavalo region. This is undoubtedly a holiday that gives you the best of all worlds.

• Capital city: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
• Population: 26,640 (2012)
• Size of country: 7,880 sq km
• Currency: US dollars
• Power supply: 110-120 Volts
• Sockets: US-style two-pin variety
• Language: Spanish
• Time difference: GMT -6 hours
• Visas: British passport holders can currently stay on the Galapagos Islands as tourists for up to 90 days without a visa
• Religion: Roman Catholic and other
• FCDO advice: FCDO travel advice

Wildlife viewing in the Galapagos is excellent all year round although certain activities and species are best seen at particular times of the year. For example, giant tortoise eggs hatch between December and April whilst March sees the massed arrival of Waved albatross on Espanola.

Temperatures in the Galapagos remain fairly constant throughout the year with variations between 20 and 28˚ centigrade. December to May are the warmest months to visit with good levels of sunshine punctuated by heavy, short-lived showers mainly in the afternoon. With sunshine and showers, the islands become green and colourful with an abundance of flora as well as flora. June to November is the cooler season known as ‘garua’ when the days are generally cloudier and misty. July and August is often a time of high winds making the seas choppy and therefore less suitable for cruising in a smaller boat.

If you are planning on snorkelling, underwater visibility is best around mid-December to March when waters are also warmer.