Puerto Ayora Travel Guide

Wildlife has evolved in the Galapagos to create some of the world's most bizarre -- and fearless -- creatures. See Darwin's theory of evolution in action as you swim alongside marine iguanas, watch ancient tortoises slowly roam, kayak past playful sea lions, and hike among blue-footed boobies in the Galapagos Islands.

Magnificent views accompany your yoga practice

Hotels & Lodges on Santa Cruz Island

Explore hand-picked hotels & lodges chosen for their exceptional service, local personality, and easy access to the top attractions in Santa Cruz.

With our favorite tortoise in the Galapagos

Galapagos Average Air and Water Temperatures

The Galapagos Islands are a great destination to visit year-round. The archipelago experiences very mild seasonal variations throughout. However, there are a few weather patterns that should be taken into consideration depending on what you want to see & do during your trip.

Cruise the Galapagos islands aboard the Ocean Spray

Galapagos Cruise: When to Go?

If you are planning a trip to the Galapagos, this brief and informative article will give you a greater insight into when the best times to travel area.

Galapagos FAQs

Do you want to book a trip to the Galapagos Islands but aren't exactly sure where to start? Our FAQ article answers some of the most common traveler questions. From what time of year to visit to packing suggestions, this guide will hopefully help you in the planning process. No matter what, this is sure to be a trip of a lifetime!

What to do in Puerto Ayora
Although this bustling 18,000-person city is not the capital of the Galapagos Islands, it is the largest town in the archipelago and therefore home to many great attractions.

El Chato Reserve – Here you will find the signature giant tortoises roaming freely through their natural highland habitat.
Lava Tunnels – Formed when the flowing surface lava hardened and the magma beneath continued to flow, these hollow tubes can sometimes extend for hundreds of meters like other-worldly caves, some of which are even open to exploration.
The Beach at Tortuga Bay – Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the warm equatorial sun as the turquoise water crawls up and down the golden sand.
Charles Darwin Research Station – Here you will learn more about the different conservation projects that the National Park does and see giant tortoises being bred and raised in the safety of captivity until they are mature enough to be released in their natural habitat.
Los Gemelos – Hike through a dense scalesia forest to these giant sinkholes.