Popular Best Things to Do in Galapagos
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Popular Best Things to Do in Galapagos

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Tortuga Bay Beachtop_1
    󰺂7.0
    Puerto Ayora15 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Cool Water Escapes in Galapagos
    Highlights:
    󰀆Turtle nesting season spectacle
    󱓊Hike 1.9-mile trail to Turtle Bay
    4.5/5
    iQOO🐮iQOO🐮

    Arriving at Turtle Bay on a new moon night, the beach shimmered with a cold, silvery phosphorescence under the moonlight. Following the tracks left by the ranger's red flashlight, we suddenly saw leatherback turtles emerge from the waves like prehistoric warships—their eyes brimming with the salt of the Pacific Ocean, using their flippers to dig the holy grail of life in the sand. The moment the first egg fell into the nest, everyone present held their breath, with only the sound of the tide providing accompaniment to this ritual that had continued for hundreds of millions of years. At dawn, the hatchlings broke through the sand, trudging towards the indigo dawn on the horizon, instantly filling the beach with the trails of miniature galaxies. The ranger whispered, "The pattern on the shell of each returning mother turtle is a unique star map." And in my hand, I found a drop of warm, salty incubation water that had drifted in with the sea breeze.

  • Charles Darwin Research Stationtop_2
    󰺂4.4
    Puerto Ayora15.1 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    Wildlife watching in mangrove wetlands
    󱓊Birthplace of Darwin's evolution theory
    5.0/5
    3ade3ade

    The institute has a small range of unique species such as giant tortoises and land iguanas, as well as introductions to these species. Several exhibition houses mainly introduce Darwin's history and achievements. It is best to go to the Darwin Institute with a guide and listen to the explanations, otherwise the experience will be low. We went around by ourselves and couldn't understand many things.

  • San Cristóbal Islandtop_3
    󰺂4.3
    San Cristobal Island>100 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Cool Water Escapes in Galapagos
    Highlights:
    󱓊Snorkel & explore marine life
    󱨜360° view of Galapagos Islands
    4.7/5
    乖小咪乖小咪

    San Cristóbal Island is an isolated island in the Galapagos Province. The water around here is very clear and the underwater flora and fauna are rich. It is also an ideal diving site. You can swim with posters and various colored sea fishes. It is really lovely to watch their agile postures under the sea.

Best things to do in Galapagos (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Galapagos? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Galapagos offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Galapagos

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Galapagos experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Tortuga Bay Beach

• Puerto Ayora | 15 km from downtown

• : Turtle nesting season spectacle,Hike 1.9-mile trail to Turtle Bay

Charles Darwin Research Station

• Puerto Ayora | 15.1 km from downtown

• : Wildlife watching in mangrove wetlands,Birthplace of Darwin's evolution theory

San Cristóbal Island

• San Cristobal Island | >100 km from downtown

• : Snorkel & explore marine life,360° view of Galapagos Islands

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Galapagos

If you want to explore attractions just outside Galapagos, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Galapagos, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Galapagos special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Galapagos

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Galapagos

Ready to explore the best of Galapagos? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Galapagos?
These are all Best Things to Do in Galapagos:Tortuga Bay Beach, Charles Darwin Research Station, San Cristóbal Island
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Galapagos?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Galapagos include:Tortuga Bay Beach:4.5, Charles Darwin Research Station:5.0, San Cristóbal Island:4.7
At what locations in Galapagos can Best Things to Do in Galapagos be found?
The Best Things to Do in Galapagos are mainly located in:Tortuga Bay Beach:Puerto Ayora, Charles Darwin Research Station:Puerto Ayora, San Cristóbal Island:San Cristobal Island
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