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Galapagos Snorkeling Trips

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    • Galapagos
Galapagos beach
from $8,490
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Western Islands

Santiago Island to South Plaza - 6 Day Itinerary aboard Grand Ocean Spray
  • Explore Chinese Hat trails
  • Explore the Urbina Bay coastline
  • See Vicente Roca seabird colonies
  • Take a trail along Lake Darwin
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activities
Hiking, Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing, Whale Watching, Kayaking
Activity Level
Variable
Experience Galapagos penguins, Elizabeth Bay, and more on a cruise through the Western Islands. Enjoy hiking, snorkeling, and dinghy rides on this 6-day Galapagos tour aboard Grand Ocean Spray.
Cruise Details
0
Blue-footed boobies perched on volcanic rocks
from $7,845
Savings
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South & East Islands

7 Day Itinerary aboard Galapagos Horizon
  • Explore the highlands of Santa Cruz
  • Spot blue-footed boobies
  • Stroll along Gardner Bay
  • Visit La Galapaguera
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 7-day exploration cruise with Galapagos Horizon, visiting iconic sites like Twin Craters and Post Office Bay. Encounter diverse wildlife, snorkel in pristine waters, and delve into the islands' rich natural and human history.
Cruise Details
0
Warm waters of the Galapagos archipelago
from $7,554
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Diving Cruise (Visiting Galapagos)

8 Day Itinerary aboard Calipso
  • Explore Lobos Island
  • Discover Manchena's natural beauty
  • Admire Wolf's underwater widllife
  • Dive at Darwin's Arch
Starts / Ends
San Cristobal / San Cristobal
Activities
Scuba Diving
Activity Level
Variable
Discover the North Central Galapagos Islands on this 8-day voyage, balancing activity and relaxation perfectly in one of the world's premier wildlife-viewing destinations. Dive in the most stunning locations including Cousin Rock, Cape Marshall, Punta Shark Bay, and Cape Douglas.
Cruise Details
0
Wildlife viewing and tours of the Galapagos islands
from $5,100
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Northeast Islands

Santa Cruz to San Cristobal - 6 Day Itinerary aboard EcoGalaxy
  • Hike volcanic lava trails
  • Observe giant tortoises grazing
  • Discover finches and mockingbirds
  • Explore red-sand beaches
Starts / Ends
Baltra / San Cristobal Airport
Activities
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 6-day Northeast Galapagos Islands cruise aboard EcoGalaxy. Visit Baltra, Bartolome, Genovesa, Santa Cruz, and more. Snorkel with turtles, hike lava fields, explore bird colonies, and encounter giant tortoises. Experience wildlife up close aboard a guided adventure that highlights the region’s volcanic landscapes and rich biodiversity.
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Witness the beautiful and colorful flamingos.
from $5,706
Savings
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Southern Galapagos Journey

6 Day Itinerary aboard Galapagos Sea Star
  • Snorkel Devil’s Crown crater
  • Hike Santa Fe trails
  • Spot North Seymour boobies
  • Observe Mosquera sea lions
Starts / Ends
San Cristobal / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Experience the Galápagos Islands on a 6-day voyage aboard the Galapagos Sea Star, exploring San Cristobal, Española, Floreana, Santa Fe, and North Seymour. Encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and vibrant marine life while hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking across diverse islands.
Cruise Details
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Green sea turtle swimming
from $6,690
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Northern Galapagos Catamaran Cruise

Bartholomew to Mosquera Islet - 5 Day Itinerary aboard Grand Ocean Spray
  • Visit Bartolomew Pinnacle Rock
  • Trek through mangroves
  • Spot red-footed boobies
  • See Mosquera sea lions
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 5-day Northern Galapagos cruise aboard Grand Ocean Spray. Visit Bartolomew, Genovesa, Santiago, Santa Cruz, and Mosquera. Snorkel at Devil’s Crown, hike volcanic landscapes, and see wildlife. Explore Charles Darwin Research Station and glide through pristine waters rich with marine life.
Cruise Details
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Iconic wildlife of the Galapagos sunning themselves
from $6,745
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East & Central Islands

8 Day Itinerary aboard Calipso
  • Explore Chinese Hat
  • Observe the Galapagos tortoise
  • Discover Pinnacle Rock
  • Observe North Seymour's wildlife
Starts / Ends
San Cristobal Airport / San Cristobal Interpretation Center
Activity Level
Variable
Cruise through the Eastern and Central Galapagos Islands on the Calipso. Spend time learning about the history of the islands and watch as sea birds soar and sea lions play on this 8-day tour.
Cruise Details
0
Flamingo Lagoon
from $6,195
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Western Islands

Roundtrip Baltra - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Anahi
  • Discover Isabela and Las Tintoreras
  • Ascend Sierra Negra Volcano
  • Visit Elizabeth Bay
  • Observe sea lions in the lagoon
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard the Anahi in the western Galapagos Islands. Explore lush highlands, and visit Isabela Island's Las Tintoreras, Sierra Negra Volcano, and Tagus Cove. Discover diverse wildlife at Punta Espinoza, Puerto Egas, Rábida Island, and Bartolomé Island. Conclude with a visit to North Seymour to observe Baltra's land iguanas.
Cruise Details
0
sally lightfoot crab
from $6,195
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Northeast and Southern Islands

Roundtrip Baltra - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Anahi
  • Sail around Kicker Rock
  • Explore Genovesa's landscapes
  • View lava lizards at Pitt Point
  • Sunbathe in Las Bachas Beach
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Visit the Northeast and Southern Galapagos Islands aboard the Anahi during this 8-day cruise. Enjoy snorkeling in South Plaza, a panga ride in Turtle Cove, exploring the Hill at Pitt Point, and participating in excursions to Post Office Bay, Darwin Bay, and Santa Fe.
Cruise Details
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White tipped shark
from $5,845
Savings
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Southern Islands

5 Day Itinerary aboard Infinity
  • Enjoy Post Office Bay's beaches
  • Visit Devil’s Crown
  • Observe unique wildlife
Activity Level
Variable
Board the brand new Infinity on this spectacular 5-day sailing expedition and discover the breathtaking beauty of the incredible Galapagos Islands. Admire the clear waters, making it easy to find sea turtles, sea lions, stingrays and perhaps even white-tipped sharks.
Cruise Details
0
Sea Lion resting on Red Sesuvium
from $5,155
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Galapagos Western Islands

8 Day Itinerary aboard Corals
  • Discover Vicente Roca Point
  • Take a dinghy ride along Isabela
  • Explore the volcanic Urbina Bay
  • Visit Santa Fe's sea lion colonies
Starts / Ends
Baltra / San Cristobal Airport
Activity Level
Variable
​Join an 8-day cruise exploring the magical secrets of the Galapagos archipelago, visiting incredible locations, and indulging yourself in the exotic beauty of the unique landscapes that only the Galapagos can offer.
Cruise Details
0
Image of a giant tortoise.
from $5,274
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Western Islands

7 Day Itinerary aboard Seaman Journey
  • Observe colonies of marine iguanas
  • Explore the diverse marine life
  • Visit lava tubes and lava flows
  • View historical inscriptions
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Journey to the western islands of the Galapagos on this 7-day cruise on the Seaman Journey. Discover the diverse landscapes and unique wildlife of Baltra, Santa Cruz, Fernandina, Isabela, and Santiago Islands.
Cruise Details
0
Exploring tidal pools for critters in the Galapagos
from $4,545
Savings
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Northern Islands

5 Day Itinerary aboard Grand Majestic
  • Visit Fausto Llerena Breeding Cente
  • View Nazca & red-footed boobies
  • Hike up to Prince Phillip's Steps
Starts / Ends
Baltra / San Cristobal Airport
Activity Level
Variable
The Grand Majestic takes you on a spectacular 5-day sailing expedition across one of the most unique archipelagos on the planet, the Galapagos Islands. Experience the beauty and natural charm of these volcanic islands while visiting Santa Cruz, Genovesa, Rabida and San Cristobal.
Cruise Details
0
Sleepy sea lion on a log
from $4,645
Savings
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Southern Islands

5 Day Itinerary aboard Natural Paradise
  • Explore Kicker Rock
  • Interact with Galapagos sea lions
  • Hike in the volcanic Sullivan Bay
Starts / Ends
San Cristobal / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
On this 5-day Southern Islands Galapagos cruise aboard the Natural Paradise, explore outstanding wildlife-viewing areas and experience once-in-a-lifetime snorkel opportunities with the most diverse marine life. Discover the diverse and fascinating coastlines of San Cristobal, North Seymour, Santa Fe, Santa Cruz, Santiago, Bartholomew & South Plaza.
Cruise Details
0
A pair of friendly sea lions
from $5,845
Savings
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Western Islands

5 Day Itinerary aboard Galapagos Horizon
  • Discover Sullivan Bay's beauty
  • Observe mola-mola sunfish
  • Swim & snorel across Isabela Island
  • Visit Fausto Llerena
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
This 5-day cruise offers incredible snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking adventures all around the Galapagos archipelago in style. Gourmet cuisine, the best guides, and spacious & stylish cabins guarantee a top-notch luxury cruising experience second to none.
Cruise Details
0
Blue-footed booby mating dance
from $3,500
Savings
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Northeast Islands

Baltra to San Cristobal - 5 Day Itinerary aboard Galaxy
  • Snorkel with marine wildlife
  • Spot red-footed boobies
  • Cruise around Kicker Rock
  • Spot Santa Fe land iguanas
Starts / Ends
Baltra / San Cristobal Airport
Activities
Small Ship Sailing
Activity Level
Variable
Sail through the Northeast Galapagos Islands on a 5-day expedition aboard Galaxy. Visit North Seymour, Santa Fe, Genovesa, and San Cristobal. Snorkel with sea lions, hike volcanic trails, and observe iconic wildlife like giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas in their natural habitats.
Cruise Details
0
Cruising in the Galapagos
from $3,945
Savings
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Northern Islands

4 Day Itinerary aboard Infinity
  • Admire Black Turtle Cove's wildlife
  • Snorkel at Darwin Bay
  • Discover Santiago's natural beauty
Starts / Ends
Baltra / El Chato Tortoise Reserve
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on this 4-day voyage scouting the central and northern islands of the Galapagos. Satisfy yourself with the majesty of the exceptional landscape, and relax on the beach. Get ready to see an abundance of unique wildlife including, blue-footed bobbies, reef sharks, flamingos, and playful sea lions. This memorable vacation will leave you wanting to come back for more.
Cruise Details
0
Dry Landing at Dragon's Hill
from $4,245
Savings
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Southern Islands II

5 Day Itinerary aboard Galapagos Angel
  • Explore the highlands of Santa Cruz
  • Spot blue-footed boobies
  • Stroll along Gardner Bay
  • Visit Black Turtle Cove
Starts / Ends
Baltra / Baltra
Activity Level
Variable
Explore Santa Cruz's highlands, Suarez Point, Gardner Bay's white-sand beaches, and Santa Fe Island's scenic trails during this 5-day Southern Galapagos cruise aboard the Galapagos Angel. Conclude your journey with a visit to the Dragon Hill, encountering wildlife and relaxation along the way.
Cruise Details
0
127-144 of 409 Results

Best Spots for Snorkeling in the Galapagos

Snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands is a highlight of any Galapagos tour. From volcanic formations to lava tunnels, the islands offer some of the world’s most unique marine ecosystems. Whether you're an active solo traveler or part of a Galapagos cruise, these top Galapagos Islands snorkeling spots are not to be missed:

 

1. Devil’s Crown (Isla Española)

This submerged volcanic crater offers some of the best snorkeling in Galapagos. Known for its strong currents and exceptional biodiversity, it's a must on any Galapagos cruise itinerary. Spot reef sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

2. Kicker Rock (Isla San Cristobal)

Towering rock walls rise from the ocean, creating a dramatic backdrop and a haven for marine life. Clear waters make this a top pick for Galapagos snorkeling with sharks, rays, and turtles.

3. Gardner Bay (Isla Española)

Calm, turquoise waters make this bay ideal for beginners. Swim alongside curious sea lions and tropical fish just off the soft white-sand beach.

4. North Seymour Island

Accessible via Galapagos cruise or day trip, North Seymour offers incredible wildlife both above and below water. Expect reef sharks, rays, and dense fish schools.

5. Floreana Island (Devil’s Crown & Champion Islet)

Champion Islet and Devil’s Crown near Floreana are famous for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant reef life. These sites are often featured on naturalist-led Galapagos snorkeling tours.

6. Isabela Island (Los Tuneles)

Snorkeling in the Galapagos here means swimming through ancient lava tunnels and arches where penguins, seahorses, and sea turtles thrive. A favorite on many Galapagos land tours.

7. Bartolomé Island

Renowned for its stunning views and rich marine life, this site offers excellent visibility and the chance to snorkel with Galápagos penguins.

8. Santa Fe Island

Peaceful and less crowded, Santa Fe is great for travelers seeking a relaxed, uncrowded Galapagos snorkeling experience. Swim with sea lions, rays, and colorful reef fish.

What to Expect from Your Galapagos Snorkeling Adventure

Whether you're on a Galapagos cruise or a land-based tour, Galapagos Islands snorkeling offers unmatched access to wildlife and pristine ecosystems:

  • Marine Life Encounters: Spot playful sea lions, sea turtles, eagle rays, colorful fish and even reef sharks or penguins.
  • Snorkeling Gear Provided: Wetsuits, fins, and masks are included on most Galapagos cruises and guided tours for maximum comfort.
  • Safety First: Trained naturalist guides provide a safe and educational experience, pointing out wildlife and assessing water conditions.
  • Itinerary Overview: Tours begin with transportation from your lodge or vessel to key Galapagos snorkeling sites. Enjoy guided time in the water and scenic return trips—seamlessly organized.

Why Book a Galapagos Snorkeling Tour with Adventure Life?

When you book Galapagos snorkeling tours with Adventure Life, you’re not just snorkeling, you’re joining a curated experience designed for comfort, education, and sustainability.

  • Expert Knowledge: Our local naturalist guides enrich your experience with insights into marine biology and conservation.
  • Tailored Experiences: Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or seasoned diver, we match you with the right tour or Galapagos cruise.
  • Eco-Conscious Travel: We follow strict sustainability practices to protect marine habitats and support local conservation efforts.
  • Unmatched Access: Explore remote Galapagos snorkeling spots that are off-limits to independent travelers, available only through licensed operators.

FAQs: Galapagos Islands snorkeling

Does the Galapagos have good snorkeling?

Yes! The Galapagos Islands are one of the world’s top snorkeling destinations. Clear waters, volcanic coastlines, and protected marine reserves make it easy to swim alongside sea turtles, rays, reef sharks, penguins, sea lions, and fishes. Whether you're on a Galapagos cruise or a land-based tour, snorkeling in the Galapagos is a highlight of any adventure.

What are the best months to snorkel in the Galapagos?

Galapagos Islands snorkeling is great year-round, but the best months depend on your preferences:

  • Warm season (Dec–May): Calmer seas, warmer water, and excellent visibility, ideal for snorkeling.
  • Cool season (June–Nov): Waters are cooler, but marine life activity increases. Wetsuits are recommended during this time.
Which Galapagos Island has the best snorkeling?

Several islands offer world-class snorkeling, and the best often depends on the wildlife you want to see:

  • Devil’s Crown (Española): Top site for marine diversity.
  • Kicker Rock (San Cristóbal): Swim with sharks and rays in deep water.
  • Los Tuneles (Isabela): Shallow lava tunnels with turtles, seahorses, and penguins. Adventure Life’s itineraries include access to these top spots as part of both land and Galapagos snorkeling cruises.
Do I need a wetsuit to snorkel in the Galapagos?

It depends on the season and your comfort level:

  • Dec–May: Water temperatures are warmer (~75–82°F), and a wetsuit is optional.
  • June–Nov: Cooler waters (~65–75°F); a wetsuit is strongly recommended.

Most Galapagos snorkeling tours with Adventure Life include wetsuits and all necessary gear.

Is it safe to snorkel with sharks in the Galapagos?

Yes. Snorkeling in the Galapagos with reef sharks, including white-tipped and Galapagos sharks, is a common and safe experience. These species are non-aggressive and typically uninterested in humans. All Galapagos Islands snorkeling excursions are led by licensed naturalist guides who ensure your safety and comfort in the water.

Are Galapagos snorkeling tours with Adventure Life suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. Adventure Life offers Galapagos tours and cruises that cater to all experience levels. Beginners are welcomed with guided instruction, calm-water locations, and gear provided. Itineraries are designed to build confidence while offering close encounters with marine wildlife in safe, controlled settings.

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