Not surprisingly, even iguanas have evolved differently here. They typically feed close to shore, making spectacular dives into the sea to catch fish, and are widely distributed in small ground-nesting colonies. The Galapagos Islands aren’t a bargain destination. The average cost of a visit to the Galapagos Islands varies based on which of the three trip types are being considered: Galapagos by Cruise: $500-$1000 per day on average (+ flights & entry fees). If your plans are to visit during that time frame, be sure to get your itinerary organized early and don't expect to. Española Island , the southernmost islet of the archipelago, and Darwin Island , the. The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, 575 mi west of Ecuador, South America, and are a territory of Ecuador. $11,977. The cold Humboldt Current also causes frequent drizzles (or garúa) throughout the year. 5-mile walk to Tortuga Bay—a spectacular white sand beach with a separate cove for swimming. Known for their biodiversity and their connection to the theory of evolution, these volcanic islands are World Heritage Sites. Scientific Name. Air and sea temperature difference creates a layer of mist in the Archipelago sky. Meta calls the film series. It’s located on a junction where 3 tectonic plates meet, and 13 of the islands are volcanic. Four of the 18 main islands in the Galápagos are inhabited and open to tourism: Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island, Floreana Island, and San Cristóbal Island. Read 77,831 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Galapagos. The Galapagos Islands are a small archipelago of islands belonging to Ecuador in the eastern Pacific Ocean. It was. Tailor-Made trips. The Galápagos Islands are an , or group of islands, that have been created by volcanoes. Wolf Island is, together with Darwin island, the most remote group of islands of the archipelago and a Mecca for diving in Galápagos. 19. $249. If you’ve got the time and money to invest in your Galápagos Islands adventure, then an all-inclusive tour like this one would be a wise choice. Essential Facts. 30 Jan 2024. The greenest of all the islands and the spot where Charles Darwin first made landfall, San Cristobal is home to the official capital city of the Galapagos (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno) and, as such, boasts an airport, naval base and government house. Galapagos Islands Migration Card: $20. However, despite their potentially major repercussions, little is known about current and expected changes in regional terrestrial climate variables and sea surface temperatures (SST). If you have budget, these are must-stays in the Galapagos: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel (Santa Cruz); Hotel La Isla (Isabela); Hotel Galápagos Casa Playa Mann (San Cristobal); All inhabited Galapagos islands provide first-class tourist lodging. Since October 20, 2022, visitors to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are no longer required to present a certification of vaccination for COVID-19 or a negative test result. The small uninhabited Bartolome Island is considered to have the most beautiful landscape of the entire Galapagos archipelago. 397. Keep a distance of at least 6 feet (2 meters) from the wildlife. You have to tip your guide and crew ( budget $10 – $20 per day for tipping, depending on the price you’re paying for your cruise. Here, take advantage of snorkeling, diving, swimming and boating. GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS ECUADOR Isolated in the Pacific Ocean 800-1100 km west of Ecuador at the confluence of three ocean currents, cold and warm, these islands, which are subject to ongoing volcanic and seismic activity, and the surrounding marine reserve, are a natural museum of geological, ecological and evolutionary processes. In this tour we will kayak and snorkel in the bay of Puerto Villamil Isabela Island, we will observe several endemic animals…. Almost like an all year summer. With tourism still very much down, visitors have the opportunity to see the islands as Charles Darwin experienced them 200 years ago. The Reason Behind the Cost of a Galapagos Trip. The Galapagos Islands are like a biological ark in the eastern Pacific Ocean. However, because of Ecuador’s progress in strengthening conservation measures, the. The islands are found at the coordinates 1°40'N–1°36'S, 89°16'–92°01'W. It comprises 18 major islands, three smaller islands, and numerous islets and rocks. Natural Wonders, Hiking, Recreation, Sightseeing Type. . Known for their biodiversity and their connection to the theory of evolution, these volcanic islands are World Heritage Sites. 4 Visit the Galápagos tortoises in El Chato/Rancho Primicias. Few destinations stimulate as much wonder and have inspired as many scientific pursuits as the Galapagos Islands. Temperatures rarely dip below 70°F (21°C) or reach higher than 90°F (32°C) so you can travel to the islands at any time throughout the year and experience fantastic weather. Snorkeling in Cabo Rosa Tunnels Isabela Island. Simply put, it is the best place in the world to safely get up-close to, and even interact with, animals in the wild. More than 20% of the marine species in Galapagos are found nowhere else. The Galapagos islands are located on both sides of the equator about 600 miles from mainland Ecuador. 800. Santa Cruz's Puerto Ayora is the Galapagos' largest town, with a population of 12,000 (the bulk of the islands' residents). But the magnitude of the eradication campaigns in the Galápagos is staggering: 79,579 goats “removed” from Santiago, 41,683 from Pinta, 7,726 in San Cristóbal—in all, 201,285 goats have. These islands are truly otherworldly – a place where you. Five-Day Galápagos Nature Tour. The Islands are part of Ecuador at a distance of 906 km (563 mi) west from continental Ecuador, which is also the closest landmass to them. There is also something just so much more ‘tropical island’ about Isabela. Quick Facts. Charles Darwin formulated his theory of evolution after visiting the Galápagos Islands in 1835. Giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and birds unique to the area greeted Charles Darwin when he arrived on the Galápagos Islands in 1835. 1. This is the magic of the Galapaogos Islands in pictures. 15. They straddle both sides of the Equator, 620 miles (1,000 km) off the coast of Ecuador. Spielautomaten um Echtgeld sind wie eine Lotterie, die völlig Ihr Leben ändern kann. They are part of the country of Ecuador, in South America. What makes the Galapagos’s wildlife remarkable is the variety of endemic species living on these lands. Hundreds of giant tortoises can be seen here, especially…. Finch Bay Restaurant – part of the award-winning Finch Bay Hotel in Puerto Ayora – is considered by many to be one of the best fine dining restaurants on the Galápagos Islands. Sogar jetzt können Sie direkt von Ihrem. In fact, from mid-June to early-September, the islands can get very crowded with travelers from around the globe descending upon the region. Our most recommended things to do in Galápagos Islands. The Galapagos Penguin is the second smallest penguin species on the planet (the smallest species is the Little Penguin found in New Zealand). Volcán Alcedo. RRP: £19. Puerto Ayora, Galápagos Islands: Charles Darwin Foundation; 2007. 01 Its official name is Archipiélago de Colón, while its Spanish name is Islas Galápagos. Park history. 3157. First-class – First Class cruises in Galapagos are on top-class boats with very similar service as luxury cruises. These will generally cost between $5US-$10US per person. Sogar jetzt können Sie direkt von Ihrem. Read more. Make sure you're ready for anything with travel insurance from our trusted partners. 26 May 2021. The Galápagos archipelago encompasses 19 islands and over 40 islets; it’s home to more than 30,000 people. Cost: Fares for a 10-night cruise (including two nights in Guayaquil) start from $7,710 per person. Photo: Rastapopulous, CC BY-SA 3. Their position 600 miles from the Ecuadorian coast means that everything costs around 2. 397. When backpacking around Ecuador, we suggest budgeting $30-40 a day for food, accommodation, and activities. Expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $12,000 per traveler depending on the ship, itinerary, and length of the voyage. 8. Galapagos Islands, island group of the eastern Pacific Ocean, administratively a province of Ecuador. It’s located on the western side of the archipelago, right on top of the ‘hot spot’, allowing only mangrove and pioneer cacti to grow in this unique, soil-less environment. Visitation is limited by the national park, vessels are small and cabins fill up fast. Natural Wonders, Hiking, Recreation, Sightseeing Type. Our Island-by-Island guide is the best resource for providing a wealth of information about each of the 13 major islands and 7 smaller islands that make up the Galápagos Archipelago. On the eastern coast of the island is Sullivan Bay, where a large pahoehoe lava flow dates from an eruption in the late 1800s. 2. Birds might have flown there by accident and decided to settle there due to favourable conditions. The government of Ecuador has designated 97% of the land area of the Galápagos Islands as the country's first national park. Hotels near the sights. Sign up for a guided kayaking tour on the Itabaca Channel, watch iguanas sunbathing at Santa Fe Island and hike to the top of Cerro Tijeretas. The Galapagos Islands are part of the Republic of Ecuador and are found around 1000km from the country’s mainland in the Pacific Ocean. The Galapagos Islands is an archipelago of about 300 volcanic islands (including rocks and islets) located in the Pacific Ocean right on the Equator Line. Whilst the remote nature of the archipelago means that the habitats and wildlife preserved on the islands are some of the most spectacular in the world, it is a travel destination that takes a while to get to, which. The largest of the Galapagos Islands, Isabela is one of the most volcanically active places in the world. For a short but action-packed day tour, Bartolome is an excellent option within easy reach from the main town of Puerto Ayora. Find out more. The Galapagos Islands got their national park status in 1959, and in 1978 were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adam Laughter says “A minimum for either program is always 4 days just considering the travel time and cost. The Galapagos Islands in Photos. 9. 5-Day Small Group Galapagos Multisport: Biking, Hiking, and Snorkeling. For a short but action-packed day tour, Bartolome is an excellent option within easy reach from the main town of Puerto Ayora. 2. per adult (price varies by group size) 7-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Tortuga Bay, Tintoreras, Wildlife Watching. Wildlife of the South And Western Islands. Here you have 6 different dive sites. 14. 12. Here, you'll find hotels, restaurants, cafes, and bars, and plenty of tourist facilities for island day-trips, and it's just a 1. [:en]The Galapagos Islands have long held a fascination for travelers around the world. May is one of the most underrated times to visit the Galapagos Islands. 5. The Galapagos Archipelago consists of 24 islands (12 main and 12 minor), though only 5 are inhabited. Itinerary #1: Relaxed Family Trip to the Galápagos Islands: Santa Cruz, Isabela & San Cristóbal. The Galapagos Islands enjoy warm temperatures all year round. Thus, many Galapagos cruises are often sold out 6 to 9 months in advance, with holidays booked out more than 12 months in advance. The Galápagos Islands have some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving sites in the world, allowing you to spot an array of aquatic creatures up close, including sea turtles, marine iguanas, penguins, sea lions and hammerhead sharks. If you’re travelling through Ecuador, this is undoubtedly a consideration. 4. Las Tintoreras. Com uma área de 4 640 km², é a maior ilha do arquipélago. 2. In 1971, the Galápagos National Park Service had its first Superintendent, 2 officers and 6. The Galapagos Islands are a natural wonder, and I'm glad I could assist in making your trip memorable. Best Galapagos cruises; 2. The Galapagos Archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage conservation site deemed to be of global ecological importance, but it is also a well-known tourist destination where the conservation-tourism alliance has actively sought strategies to advance conservation and community interests through. This perpetually moving plate is heading eastward over the Galapagos hot spot and has formed the chain of islands. Everything you've heard about the Galápagos Islands is true: Yes, the Galápagos tortoise is nearly the size of a Smart car; and. Perfect for families seeking quality time together while discovering unique wildlife, this 10-day family trip to the Galápagos Islands hits the highlights of Isla Santa Cruz, Isla Isabela, and Isla San Cristóbal. Land Iguana. The higher-end charters with private cabins, gourmet fare and National Geographic-level guides can cost anywhere from $750 to more than $1,000 per day, while more modest cruises with standard. Aquatic Invasions DOI. Typically, your cruise or tour company will pay these fees in advance. These unique hotels in Galapagos Islands have been described as romantic by other travelers: Angermeyer Waterfront Inn - Traveler rating: 4. Six hundred miles off the coast of Ecuador lie the volcanic islands of the Galápagos, famous for a wealth of unique plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. As of February 18, 2023, a declaration of traveler health and insurance is no longer required. If you are looking for the top of the line experience and want to spend that hard-earned cash on a well deserved luxury vacation, check out the Galapagos Habitat hotel. Non-residents cannot buy a one-way ticket to Galápagos. Brief synthesis The Galapagos Islands area situated in the Pacific Ocean some 1,000 km from the Ecuadorian coast. 1. The production combines the original documentary's live-action footage of the Galapagos islands with new illustrations made in VR with the program Quill by. Search. & up. The Galapagos archipelago consists of 13 main islands and 6. The Galapagos Islands are fairly close together, but ferries can be expensive. Type of Animal: Reptile. As a leader in direct on-the-ground conservation action, we work. Destinations. Whether this is thrilling or terrifying is up to you. In 2019, UNESCO added 29 new entries, bringing their total to over 1,000 sites in more than 150 countries. Caribbean aboard Sea Cloud. Destinations. Tip # 1: The cheapest city to fly from is usually Guayaquil. Galapagos’ communication is also more expensive than on the Ecuador mainland. December and June are transition months. It doesn’t seem to bother the iguanas and penguins of Las Tintoreras, a nearby island cluster and popular snorkeling site. (on my to-do list). There are 13 major islands and six smaller islands on the Galápagos. Last month, the Academy kicked off a two-year endeavor to digitize a portion of its iconic bird, mammal, and reptile collection from the Galapagos, much of which comes from the 1905-1906 expedition. Park Fees and Other Additional Costs. Free cancellation. Private Charter - Western Islands Aboard Bonita. 6. The turquoise waters on the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands are a perfect yacht charter destination for groups or families seeking adventure. This package was especially designed in a way you can take advantage of time in just four days in Santa Cruz Island. Rising from the Pacific, 1,000km (621mi) off the coast of mainland Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago where three tectonic plates and three major sea currents meet. ”. 17. Galapagos land-based tours are split into two categories, hotel-based and island hopping. The best time to explore the Galápagos Islands is from December to May. 5. W hen the first of the Galápagos Islands arose from the ocean floor around 3m years ago, they were naked, angry, lava-spewing cones devoid of life. From $8,500 per person. These creatures are famous for having no fear of humans, thus creating one of the most up close and personal wildlife experiences in the world. We have selected the 21 best photos from our recent trip to the Galapagos archipelago to inspire your wanderlust. Population distribution: There are 13 main islands, 7 smaller islands, and 107 islets, out of which in only 5 have people living on them: Baltra, Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana. They’re full of amazing sights and a variety of tours, and below are 15 of the best. Take four or more on an exclusive trip. Escape the crowds and explore the islands on a Galapagos Cruise in small groups and with experienced naturalist guides. Get inspired by photos, videos, webinars, stories, and exclusive offers. This area experienced a major uplift in 1954, causing the land to rise over 16 feet. Walk from Puerto Villamil through mangrove forests and. Perfect time for landscaping. Biodiversity. per adult (price varies by group size) SPECIAL OFFER. The Difference Between a Tortoise and a Turtle. The Galápagos Islands are home to a tremendous diversity of plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. Unauthorized request. depending on duration and room type (standard, superior, or suite). By 192maryh. The production combines the original documentary's live-action footage of the Galapagos islands with new illustrations made in VR with the program Quill by Smoothstep. This archipelago of about 19 islands and many smaller islets sprinkled 620 miles off Ecuador’s coast in the Pacific Ocean is. 4-Day Wildlife Tour in Santa Cruz Island. The waters of the Galapagos were the seasonal home of large numbers of prized sperm whales and the islands provided whalers and sealers with a convenient spot to careen their ships, make repairs. The Galápagos Islands are volcanic in origin; the oldest extant island in the eastern part of the archipelago is less than 5 million years (myr) old (); volcanic activity is ongoing, especially on the younger western islands. The isolated nature of the Galapagos Islands, once admired by pirates, made it an ideal place for the government to send prisoners. Our expedition is aboard one of two carefully chosen small Galapagos cruise ships, the luxurious Relais & Chateaux Origin, Theory & Evolve (from. Water temperatures tend to get cooler because of the Humboldt current crossing the North of the Galapagos. According to WWF Colombia, at least 10% of marine plastic waste is made up of fishing equipment, and between 500,000 to 1 million tons of fishing gear enters the ocean every year. The Galápagos are one of the few places on Earth where it’s best to eschew intrepid adventure and get around as part of a group tour. Las Grietas. On this trip, you will get to stay on 3 different islands and explore several more on boat tours. Top Galapagos Beach: Rabida Beach, Rabida Island. The islands were described as "the Galopegos Insulae" (Turtle Island). The remaining 3% is distributed between the inhabited areas of Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Baltra, Floreana and Isabela. Located on Isabela Island, El Muro de las Lágrimas or “Wall of Tears” is an important historical site in the Galapagos. 18 main islands, 3 small islands, and 107 rocky islets make up the Galapagos archipelago. Find Dates & Rates. Headed by a team of more than two hundred scientists, educators, research volunteers and support staff, this world-wide foundation is dedicated to preserving the Galapagos ecosystems. “This is completely changing the future of tourism. The Galapagos Islands are uniquely located on both sides of the equator in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. 6. 1. ". Here you stay in luxury tents or elevated tree houses with exquisite views. Good luck with the decision! Warmest regards, Heather. PRICE = Free to enter. There are three species of iguana found on the Galapagos Islands, the yellow iguana Conolophus subcristatus, Conolophus pallidus, and the pink or rosada iguana, Conolophus marthae. Galapagos National Park. Galapagos Islands Wildlife. 1. If you need help choosing where to. 12 km) northwest of Wolf Island. A surprise among Galapagos’ pristine white sand beaches is a mesmerizing sight you simply can’t miss: Rabida Beach on Rabida Island. The coloration, shape, and. It's currently estimated that more. A: Yes, you can travel Galapagos however many days before your trip and stay in one of the islands; there are hotels in Puerto Ayora, San Cristobal, and Isabela. Given San Cristobal’s human habitation (around 6,000) and ease of access, the. All tourists to the islands must also purchase a Transit Control Card for $10. Typically a single room. Biodiversity. 12. The fact that the Galapagos Islands are so remote are one of the reasons why they’re more expensive than a lot of South America. There are two main airports in. The islands are. The Insane Landscapes. More Best Things To Do in Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands are made up of 13 larger islands and more than 60 smaller islands and islets with 5 islands proving habitable to just over 30,000 people. 6) Bartolome Island Beach. First, the good news. Wolf Island. Galapagos Penguins grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) in height, weighing in at a mere 5. The Galapagos Islands are one of the most spectacular and remote locations on Earth. By 192maryh. Along with having some of the rarest animals in the world, the Galápagos Islands will be unlike any other landscape you’ve come across on your travels. Ensuring that World Heritage sites sustain their outstanding universal value is an increasingly challenging mission in today’s complex world, where sites are vulnerable to the effects of uncontrolled urban development, unsustainable tourism practices, neglect, natural calamities, pollution, political instability,. Where to go in 2024: when to visit our Best in Travel winners. Touring the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador is a life-changing experience. Drivers of economic growth in the Galapagos Islands There are four key drivers of economic growth in the Galapagos, and the importance of each increased between 1999 and 2005. Multi-day Tours. The Galapagos Islands are famous for the unique wildlife that they have. It's one of the Galapagos Islands. Weather in the Galapagos in May. If your plans are to visit during that time frame, be sure to get your itinerary organized early and don't expect to. As well as the rich concentration of biodiversity, the underwater scenery, characterised by a myriad of. Temperatures rarely dip below 70°F (21°C) or reach higher than 90°F (32°C) so you can travel to the islands at any time throughout the year and experience fantastic weather. It (the Galapagos part) was an outstanding all inclusive adventure - boarding, meals, water activities, scuba diving, etc. The Galápagos penguin ( Spheniscus mendiculus) is a penguin endemic to the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. See giant Galapagos. But in 2007, threats from increasing tourism, overfishing, and encroaching invasive species put the Galápagos on the List of World Heritage in Danger places. While the majority of the world's oceans are warming, the waters off the west coast of the Galapagos Islands are getting colder — creating a refuge from climate change for birds and marine animals. Comprehensive Galapagos Islands hotel guide. This archipelago of islands is located about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. . Points of Interest & Landmarks. Rabida Beach is a traveler favorite its rusty hues, striking land-sea contrast, and wide variety of wildlife. Below are some of the most iconic birds you are likely to see in the Galapagos. By Bonnie Keane. Today, the most westerly island, Fernandina, is the youngest and most active. 4. The Galapagos Difference. Galapagos Islands, island group of the eastern Pacific Ocean, administratively a province of Ecuador. Las Grietas. Headed by a team of more than two hundred scientists, educators, research volunteers and support staff, this world-wide foundation is dedicated to preserving the Galapagos ecosystems. These 5 islands are Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Isabela, Isla Santa Cruz, and Isla San Cristobal. 3+ days. As its name specifies, Ecuador is located on the equatorial line of the earth, giving the Galapagos Islands warm weather all year round. Monumento de la Tortuga. Since the HMS Beagle’s arrival on the islands in 1835 and the subsequent publication of a young Charles Darwin’s reflections on the animals found there, the Galapagos have captured people’s imaginations. Where to stayPrincipais ilhas. Much like the people who came to live in the Galápagos, the plants that found a home in the islands had to be hardy types. It was on these arid islands that the young naturalist formed the basis of the theory of evolution, changing the way we think about the natural world forever. . Com uma área de 4 640 km², é a maior ilha do arquipélago. 3+ days. Discover the treasures of the northern Galapagos Islands on this cruise, including Isla. per adult. 1. 5/5. In this travel guide, we share our Ecoventura review, including a day-by-day Galapagos itinerary, wildlife photos, tips on what to see and do. Reactive Monitoring Mission Report, Galapagos Islands, 27 April – 6 May 2010: 2007 Report of the Reactive Monitoring Mission, Galapagos Islands (Ecuador), 8 - 13 April 2007: 2006 Joint IUCN / UNESCO Mission Report, Galapagos Island, 28 February -. Free cancellation. 9. From climate adaptation to biodiversity to the art of learning, this year’s recipients of the Galapagos Seed Grant Program span the spectrum of research topics. 8-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Superior: Kicker Rock, Los Tuneles, Local Flight. As a result , there are strict controls at the airport to prevent any pets, food, plants, or agriculture from making its way to the Enchanted Islands. Some people imagine a wilderness full of. Grades 5 - 8 Subjects Biology, Ecology Image Marine Iguana A marine iguana sits next to a crab on a stony lava coast in the Galapagos Islands. Galapagos National Park is located about 500 miles (926 km) west of Ecuador, the islands are part of the country. 5. The Galapagos Islands inspired the theory of evolution by means of natural selection; now in the Anthropocene, the Galapagos represent an important natural laboratory to understand ecosystem. Surf at Punta Carola, San Cristobal. The Galápagos Islands were among the first group of sites added to the World Heritage List in 1978. The area the Galápagos Islands occupy measures 3,093 square miles, spread out in about thirteen major islands and many smaller islands, islets, and rocks. The islands are a birder’s delight. Sierra Negra is on the west side of the Galapagos Islands archipelago. Now, millions of years later, they are alive. 2–3 hours. The $100 fee is unchanged since for nearly 20 years, so, in a sense, this would only be catching up with inflation. The combine area of the islands is just above 3,000 square miles of land, inhabited by about 25,000 people. Galapagos Islands is part of Ecuador, located in the eastern Pacific Ocean approximately 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) west of Ecuador's mainland. Most of the reptiles in the Galapagos Islands (such as land & marine iguanas and green sea turtles) breed and nest during the rainy season, from December to May. The island is home to well-known hiking trail and views of nature. The San Cristobal… from. Marci Vaughn Kolt. A baby sea lion gives a cheeky look to the camera on Espanola Island. You’ll want to make sure you have clothing and strong sun screen and keep your kids covered up, especially in the heat of the day at midday and through the early afternoon. The park tax for children under the age of twelve is $50. 02 The word ‘Galapagos’ indicates the given Spanish name to the islands’ giant land tortoises. The Galapagos Islands are a small archipelago of islands belonging to Ecuador in the eastern Pacific Ocean. 0. Adventure Tours. January – May is the warm season, during which skies are. Fares for its seven-night cruises start from $9,390 per person. The 19 islands that form the Galapagos archipielago are. Expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $12,000 per traveler depending on the ship, itinerary, and length of the voyage. In this scenario they would be: Plane Tickets to the Galapagos Islands: $394. Getting to and from the Galapagos Islands. In fact, from mid-June to early-September, the islands can get very crowded with travelers from around the globe descending upon the region. If he could have peeked below the waves, Darwin would have found an abundance and diversity of life to rival his famed finches. See Sea Lions at La Loberia. Las Grietas. Ecuador's Galápagos Islands comprise a national park unlike most others: To visit the majority of sites, you are required to be escorted by a pedigreed guide and travel by boat.