Guide to Galapagos: Ecuador’s Oldest National Park

Galapagos National Park is a living laboratory of evolution, where nature thrives in its most unspoiled form. Located nearly 1,000 kilometers off the country’s Pacific coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site covers 97% of the Galapagos Islands’ land area. Established in 1959 as Ecuador’s first national park, it was created to preserve the unique ecosystem that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.

Today, it remains one of the most remarkable destinations in the world for wildlife encounters and ecological diversity. The park is home to an extraordinary range of species found nowhere else on Earth. Here’s our comprehensive guide to Galapagos National Park;

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Overview of Galapagos National Park

Galapagos National Park lies about 500 miles (926 km) off the coast of mainland Ecuador, yet the islands are very much a part of the country’s identity and heritage. Encompassing an area of 3,040 square miles (7,880 sq km), the park protects the vast majority of the Galapagos Islands.

The islands themselves stretch over 17,000 square miles (45,000 sq km) of Pacific waters. Out of the 21 islands in this remote archipelago, 18 are considered significant. Isabela Island is the largest and home to Volcán Wolf, the highest point in the region at 5,600 feet (1,707 m).

Designated as Ecuador’s first national park and later recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galapagos National Park safeguards 97% of the islands’ land area. There’s only about 3% for human settlements on islands such as Isabela, Baltra, Floreana, San Cristobal, and Santa Cruz.

Also Read: Best Resorts in Ecuador.

Wildlife in Galapagos National Park

Wildlife in Galapagos National Park is unlike anywhere else on the planet. Among the most iconic residents are the giant Galapagos tortoises, whose sheer size and ancient lineage inspired the islands’ name. Sharing the volcanic terrain are land iguanas and their remarkable cousins, the marine iguanas, the only lizards in the world that swim and feed in the ocean.

Along the coast, playful sea lions and their smaller relatives, the Galapagos fur seals, can often be seen basking on beaches or darting through the waves. Birdlife is just as fascinating. You’ll find blue-footed boobies, magnificent frigatebirds, and the flightless cormorant.

Darwin’s finches, with their specialized beak shapes, is another common sight. The Galapagos penguin, unique for living north of the equator, is a surprising sight in these tropical latitudes. Beneath the waves, the surrounding marine reserve thrives with green sea turtles gliding past snorkelers. You’ll also encounter schools of hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and the occasional whale shark.

Best Time to Visit Galapagos National Park

The best time to visit Galapagos largely depends on what you hope to experience, though many travelers prefer the warm season (December to May). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant with calm seas and water temperatures hovering around 76°F (25°C). These conditions make swimming and snorkeling particularly enjoyable.

The islands burst into color with lush vegetation, and visitors often witness sea turtles nesting and land birds engaging in their mating rituals. However, occasional rainfall and high humidity, especially between March and May, can make certain hikes feel more challenging.

The cooler season (June through November) rewards divers with rich marine life sightings, from whale sharks to hammerheads. However, the season is slightly less comfortable for water activities due to colder temperatures of around 72°F (22°C). August is typically the coolest month, while May strikes a balance with good hiking conditions and calmer seas.

Getting to Galapagos National Park

Reaching Galapagos National Park from mainland Ecuador is only possible by air. Travelers typically depart from Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport and often make a short stop in Guayaquil before continuing to the islands. The route is served by airlines such as LATAM or Avianca. The journey usually takes around two to two and a half hours, layover included.

You’ll either fly into Baltra Island (Galapagos’ main airport) or San Cristobal Island which sits close to the capital town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. For a seamless travel experience, you can book an organized tour from Quito. Those booked on a cruise often have their flights arranged by the operator. Once on the islands, most exploration is done by boat.

Other Activities in Galapagos National Park

Wildlife of the Galapagos National Park is undoubtedly the main attraction of the park. Watching the giant tortoises in their natural habitat is a truly remarkable experience. These massive creatures weigh up to 400 pounds and have lived for over a century. The park is home to 10 different species of these tortoises, each adapted to its specific island environment.

Marine iguanas are another extraordinary sight, often spotted basking on rocks or diving into the ocean to feed on algae. Found nowhere else on Earth, these creatures can grow up to several feet long and are typically seen in colonies that sometimes number in the hundreds.

Beyond observing wildlife, visitors can explore numerous trails across the islands, including the popular hike on Bartolome Island. This trail features a wooden staircase leading to a summit that offers panoramic views over the iconic Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding twin beaches.

Park Fees in Galapagos National Park

Galapagos charges different admission depending on your nationality and age. International visitors over the age of 12 are charged $200, while children under 12 pay $100. Travelers from Andean Community and Mercosur countries who do not reside in Ecuador pay $100 for adults and $50 for children under 12. Ecuadorian nationals pay significantly less, with fees set at $30 for adults and $15 for children.

All payments must be made in cash upon arrival at the airport before entering the park. In addition to this fee, every visitor is required to purchase a $20 Transit Control Card. It serves as part of the immigration control process for the islands. These measures are designed to regulate tourism numbers and ensure that the revenue generated directly supports the protection of the park’s unique wildlife and fragile habitats.

FAQs

Is Galapagos National Park worth visiting?

Galapagos National Park is absolutely worth a visit, particularly for those fascinated by wildlife and rare ecosystems. The park offers an unmatched chance to observe a wide variety of endemic species, from giant tortoises to marine iguanas and countless seabirds.

How long to spend in Galapagos National Park?

Most travelers spend between 4 and 10 days exploring Galapagos National Park, with a week-long stay of about 7 to 8 days often considered ideal. This allows you the chance to visit multiple islands, observe unique wildlife, and take part in activities like snorkeling and kayaking without feeling rushed.

Conclusion

Galapagos National Park is not just a destination; it is a journey into the heart of evolution and a reminder of the planet’s fragile wonders. A visit here offers the chance to witness wildlife in its purest state and to reflect on the importance of preserving such rare and irreplaceable ecosystems.