Galapagos in 5 days
Galapagos for 5 days
Key Facts, Getting There and Best Time to Visit:
The Galápagos Islands are a dream destination for travelers who crave untouched landscapes, rare wildlife, and a glimpse into nature’s most extraordinary evolutionary wonders. This volcanic archipelago, located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, is unlike anywhere else on Earth. From snorkeling with sea lions to walking alongside giant tortoises, every moment in the Galápagos feels like stepping into a wildlife documentary.
The Galápagos Islands are a year-round destination, but your experience will vary depending on when you go:
December to May: Warmer temperatures, calmer seas, and the best time for snorkeling and diving. Expect lush greenery and more active wildlife.
June to November: Cooler temperatures with nutrient-rich waters that attract more marine life, including whale sharks. Great for birdwatching and experiencing the famous Humboldt Current.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The Galápagos is one of the most biodiverse places in the world, home to species found nowhere else. It’s here that Charles Darwin’s observations led to his theory of evolution, and today, visitors can experience firsthand the incredible adaptations of animals like the marine iguana and blue-footed booby. The islands also offer stunning volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world.
Top Islands to Visit
Each island in the Galápagos offers something unique. While many visitors explore the islands on guided cruises, you can also stay on land and take day trips.
Santa Cruz Island
San Cristóbal Island
Isabela Island
Day 1: Arrive in Santa Cruz
Fly into Baltra and transfer by bus and boat to the island Santa Cruz. We stayed on land decided to visit the different islands by boat. We were picked up by the tour operator who stopped at the Highlands of Santa Cruz for lunch.
The highlands of Santa Cruz offer a striking contrast to the island’s coastal landscapes, with lush green forests, rolling hills, and unique wildlife encounters. This elevated region is home to the famous giant tortoises, which roam freely in their natural habitat. Visitors can walk alongside these gentle giants at El Chato Reserve. After lunch we went to see conservation efforts in action at the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Stay at the Finch Bay Hotel. This is the most luxurious & Most expensive hotel on the island.
If you are looking for a mid-range hotel the Ikala is a good option.
1835 Coffee Lab has some excellent coffee - be sure to try it out.
Day 2: Isabela Island
Transfer to Isabela island by boat. The boats leave at 7 AM to the different islands so you have to be by the dock by 7. The boat rides can be pretty choppy and last about 2 hours one way. Upon arriving at the island check into Casa Maritas - a funky little hotel. A more expensive option is Iguana Crossing
Walk to the Flamingo Lagoon which offers a completely different but equally mesmerizing experience. This peaceful wetland is the best place in the Galápagos to see vibrant pink flamingos wading gracefully in the brackish water, filtering food with their curved beaks. Surrounded by lush mangroves and coastal landscapes, it’s a perfect spot for birdwatching and capturing the beauty of the islands’ diverse ecosystems.
After lunch go to visit Tintoreras Islet, off the coast of Isabela Island. This small volcanic islet is home to white-tip reef sharks (locally called tintoreras), which can often be seen resting in the shallow lava crevices. This is where you can see the Galapagos penguins.
Dinner at La Casa Marita
Day 3: Snorkeling in the lava tunnels
Wake up and after breakfast take a boat to go snorkeling in the lava tunnels. One of the most breathtaking snorkeling experiences in the Galápagos is the Lava Tunnels (Los Túneles) Tour on Isabela Island. This unique geological formation features a network of submerged lava arches, tunnels, and crystal-clear pools teeming with marine life. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, the tunnels create a surreal underwater maze that feels like a hidden paradise.
Snorkeling here offers an up-close encounter with Galápagos sea turtles, reef sharks, eagle rays, and colorful fish gliding through the calm waters. Lucky visitors might even swim alongside seahorses and Galápagos penguins. Above the water, blue-footed boobies nest on the lava bridges, adding to the incredible scenery.
Transfer back to Santa Cruz island and stay overnight.
Day 4: San Cristobal Island
Transfer to San Cristobal island by boat. The ride takes about 3 hours and can be choppy. Make sure to take some sea-sickness medications.
Upon arrival check into the hotel. Some of the best hotels here are:
After checking in visit Lobos Island
Located just off the coast of San Cristóbal Island, Lobos Island (Isla Lobos) is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the Galápagos' incredible marine and birdlife. True to its name, Isla Lobos is home to a thriving population of Galápagos sea lions, often seen lounging on the rocky shores or playfully swimming around snorkelers.
The island is also a nesting site for the famous blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds, offering a fantastic opportunity for birdwatching.
Upon return have dinner at Iska - the pizzas here are incredible.
Day 5: Kicker Rock snorkeling
Kicker Rock (León Dormido) is one of the most famous sites in the Galápagos Islands, located off the coast of San Cristóbal Island. This dramatic, towering rock formation—split into two sheer cliffs—rises from the ocean, creating a narrow channel teeming with marine life.
Known as one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Galápagos, Kicker Rock offers an exhilarating underwater experience. The deep, clear waters are home to white-tip and hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, eagle rays, and schools of colorful fish.
Above the water, the rugged cliffs serve as a nesting site for blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and Nazca boobies, making it a stunning location for both marine and birdwatching.
