Ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the Galapagos? Here are the 7 top Galapagos Islands points of interest to visit.
Roughly 1,000 kilometers off of the continent of South America, you’ll find paradise. The Galapagos Islands are a beautiful archipelago consisting of 13 major islands and 127 rock formations in total.
Officially a province of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a vacation destination of thousands of tourists every year, and for a good reason. The diversity of the different islands attracts people from all around the world.
Also Read: Top 10 Endemic Animals Of Galapagos Islands
There’s something for everyone from the adventurous to the beach chasers. Keep reading for the 7 top Galapagos Islands points of interest you must visit on your trip to the famous archipelago.
1. Turtle Bay
Known locally as Tortuga Bay, this beachy southern coastline of Santa Cruz Island ticks boxes for both beach bums and wildlife enthusiasts.
White sandy beaches for optimum sun soakage? Check. A diverse ecosystem of turtles, flamingos, iguanas, crabs, and seals? Check. No tourist who visits Turtle Bay regrets their decision.
From beach bragging rights to photo ops with the Galapagos marine turtles, Tortuga Bay is number one on the list for a reason.
2. Rancho Primicias
To take turtle-seeing one step further, visit the Rancho Primicias animal sanctuary, also located on Santa Cruz Island.
Situated next door to the more popular El Chato Tortoise Reserve, Rancho Primicias offers the bonus of being privately-owned and is often much less busy.
You’ll see the region’s famous giant tortoises while enjoying creature comforts like restaurants and restrooms.
3. Puerto Egas
Located on Santiago Island, Puerto Egas is one of the Galapagos Islands’ most popular tourist attractions.
Here, you have a good chance of seeing loads of native wildlife while at the same time behold the natural wonders of lava-eroded shorelines, inlets, and caves.
4. Darwin Lake
For those up for a little bit of a hike, make your way to Isabela Island. The pristine saltwater lagoon known as Darwin Lake is more than worth than the two-kilometer trek.
At the bottom of the trail, you’ll find the lava slopes and volcano formations of Volcan Darwin. Truly a sight to see.
5. Tagus Cove
From Darwin Lake, you can take a “panga” ride down the cliffs to Tagus Cove for a dose of history. Just south of the Santa Rosa village, Tagus Cove is home to underground tunnels formed by lava solidifying.
Plus, you’ll see historical artwork and graffiti etched into the walls of the tunnel by whalers and past visitors to the islands.
6. Cerro Brujo
Don’t worry, beach chasers, we haven’t forgotten about you. Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island is credited for being one of the most beautiful beaches on the whole archipelago.
Here, you’ll be happy to find fine white sand, turquoise water, wildlife, and fantastic snorkeling.
7. El Junco Lagoon
Who doesn’t love a lagoon? El Junco Lagoon, also on San Cristobal Island, is one of the only bodies of freshwater on the archipelago. Perfect for a refreshing swim and to visit the regional wildlife.
Other Galapagos Islands Points of Interest
The archipelago has 13 main islands and tons of interesting, beautiful sights to see. More noteworthy attractions are the La Loberia beach, the Leon Dormido rock formation, and the MAPRAE museum.
Pack Your Bags
It’s a bucket list trip for most people, and understandably so. With something fun to do for all age groups, there is no shortage of Galapagos Islands points of interest for tourists.
Whether it’s white sandy beaches you’re after or adventurous hiking, snorkelling and caving, this South American archipelago have it all.
Have you been to the Galapagos? Feel free to share this post on social media along with your own tips and advice for tourists planning to visit this little slice of paradise.