At the beginning of the year, The New York Times has given the Galápagos Islands a special recognition. This breathtaking Ecuadorian archipelago has become a top pick among the most sought-after travel destinations for 2025. You should definitely include this incredible group of islands on your bucket list!
The attractions of the Indian state of Assam, Thailand, Greenland, and the French city of Aix-en-Provence. However, what captures the attention of travelers to the Galápagos Islands?
Interested in exploring Ecuador? Here are some articles to guide you in planning your trip:
- Explore Quito, the first city to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Ecuador's five most stunning hiking trails
The Galápagos Islands, a treasure trove of extraordinary species.
This volcanic archipelago is one of the most breathtaking in the world, comprising 13 main islands and 47 smaller islets. It was discovered in 1535, but it gained international recognition after Charles Darwin's groundbreaking theory of evolution was published in 1859.
These remarkable lands are famous for their incredibly diverse ecosystems. Giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and even penguins call this place home. In the surrounding oceans, a wide variety of marine life thrives, including sharks, whales, sea lions, and sea turtles coexisting together.
The islands also feature unique plant species, perfectly suited to the harsh volcanic environment. These remarkable characteristics led the Galápagos to be designated as the world's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.
Good news for the Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos National Park, set up in 1959, has doubled its entry fees for foreign visitors aged 13 and over, increasing from $100 to $200. This is the first time the fees have been raised in 26 years. The money collected will go towards preserving the unique species that live there and upgrading essential infrastructure for the sustainable growth of the archipelago.
He acknowledged that with these measures, the park will be able to play a crucial role in preserving this natural paradise.
4 Unmissable Attractions in the Galápagos Islands
During a stay in the Galápagos Islands, there are several iconic sites that you absolutely must visit. Prepare yourself for a breathtakingly stunning natural sight.
The Sierra Negra volcano on Isabela Island,
Standing at 1,124 meters, Sierra Negra is one of the most active volcanoes in the archipelago and boasts one of the world's largest craters. Adventurous tourists can embark on a 5 to 6-hour hike through stunning landscapes.
The Bartolomé Island
This island is a must-see destination, famous for its breathtaking landscapes. A visit to its summit, which stands at 114 meters, offers a stunning view of the surrounding beaches. You can reach Bartolomé Island by taking a boat from Santa Cruz Island.
The lava tubes of Cabo Rosa on Isabela Island
Accessible only by small fishing boats, these remarkable natural formations provide a habitat for a diverse array of marine wildlife. You may catch a glimpse of turtles, seahorses, white-tip sharks, and even the well-known blue-footed boobies.
The Darwin Island
This island is a paradise for divers, consistently ranked as one of the world's top snorkeling destinations. Its waters are home to whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, and large schools of dolphins.
How do I get to the Galápagos?
The Galápagos Islands can be reached by air from Ecuador's two major cities: Quito and Guayaquil. Visitors can land at either Baltra Airport, which serves Santa Cruz Island, or San Cristóbal Airport.