Galapagos Islands

Eco-friendly travel guide to Galapagos Islands advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to explore the attractions in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

The San Cristobal island in the Galapagos Islands

Air quality: 4.0 / 5

Exploring by foot: 3.5 / 5

Exploring by bicycle: 3.0 / 5

Public transportation: 3.0 / 5

Parks: 3.0 / 5

Outdoor activities: 3.5 / 5

Locals' English level: 3.0 / 5

Safety: 3.5 / 5

Accommodation: US$80 - $200

Budget per day: US$150 - $250

Responsible Travel

Galapagos Islands is one of the most scenic locations worldwide because of its vast expanse of natural galore that will help you come in close contact with nature and make you feel rejuvenated. This is an archipelago of islands that are volcanic in nature situated on either side of the equator. It is on the Pacific Ocean that is surrounded by the Western hemisphere. Being one of the most naturally beautiful locations in the world, these islands have attracted tourists from all over the world. However, increased tourist activity has had some poor effects on the environment.

For this reason, you must be extremely cautious when traveling around The Island and taking into consideration several responsible traveling guidelines to travel sustainably. Here are some of the things that you must always keep in mind:

Almost all the natural locations around The World are becoming extremely polluted because of littering. It has practically become human nature to throw around trash here and there without considering how poorly it impacts the environment. While it has a very harmful effect on the ecosystem causing much pollution, in a location like Galapagos Islands that is so close to nature, it is almost a sin to throw trash around. Always make sure to carry a bag with you where you can throw your trash. Empty the contents into a proper trash can when you come across one later.

When you are traveling to a foreign location, the aim is to understand and get the most from possible. However, this is not possible when you use private modes of transportation because you miss out on the opportunity to get in touch with those around you. For this reason, you must always make sure to take public transport wherever you are going. Not only is it an extremely sustainable way of traveling, but it is also much more affordable. You will be able to get the islands' true essence by traveling using public modes of transportation.

Being so close to nature, there is much you need to see and explore when you are at the Galapagos Islands, and much of it has to be done by yourself. The best way to soak in the beauty and mesmerizing nature of the islands is by walking around. This is the ultimate way to experience the cool breeze, the breathtaking flora, and fauna and come in close contact with Mother Nature. You will be surprised to see how much you can learn about the place by simply exploring on foot.

If you do not have much experience walking around and find it very stressful, one of the best ways to take charge of your vacation is cycling around the islands. You will be able to hire a bicycle in various locations to give you the freedom to get around using your means. This is an extremely sustainable way to reach wherever you want without burning a hole in your pocket or causing any damage to the ecosystem.

Do not waste food and water when traveling in the Galapagos Islands. You will be able to find an incredible array of fresh food in the islands that are either harvested here or imported from countries around the world. You must always make sure that you do not waste food on the islands because food and water are precious resources and have to be used in moderation. If you are not sure about the food that you are trying, always sample it before and

reduce waste as much as possible.

Air Quality and Pollution

The Galapagos Islands' air quality reads at around 17 AQI in general, which is extremely good for those traveling. The islands are deep in the Pacific Ocean, making it an incredibly refreshing spot for those coming from crowded cities and towns. This city will help you come close to nature and form a deep-rooted connection with earth and water. This is indeed not a place like any other, as it has some of the most mesmerizing natural wonders that you cannot find in any other parts around the globe.

Another significant aspect of this location is that it has beautiful weather that is extremely pleasant, providing you with the perfect opportunity to come in close contact with nature and explore the city on your own device. There is very little air pollution in this part of the world, which provides you with the best opportunity to walk around the city and inhale pure air free from the irritants and pollutants found in the air in the city. This is one of the main reasons you will actively explore the city, walking around cycling around without exhaustion.

It is highly recommended that you step outside and open your room's windows to let in the beautiful air and the natural glow. Although the air quality for most human beings, if you are extremely sensitive and triggered by pollutants, it is recommended that you wear a safety mask. This is the best place for you to get active and exert your body without feeling tremendous pressure on your lungs.

Respect the Culture

No matter where you travel around the globe, you must always be respectful towards the community and the environment of the place you are visiting. You must understand the site's history and cultural relevance and put an active effort in uplifting them rather than demeaning their customs and traditions. You might come across many practices and rituals in the Galapagos Islands, which are different from what you are accustomed to; however, this must not be why you bring them down or disrespect the native community.

As already mentioned, Galapagos Island has a huge plethora of plants and animals native to the land. You need to keep in mind that this is the natural habitat for these species and their native land. There is an impending environmental threat to these natural species, which are original to the island and now on the verge of extinction. You need to understand the importance of the ecosystem and respect it as much as you can. Much of the Galapagos Islands species have been destroyed by introducing alien species that are not primary to the land. Human beings have often introduced various plants and animals to the ecosystem that has endangered the natural community. It is for this reason you should be extremely respectful of the environment and the people here.

Top 10 Places to Visit

Galapagos Islands is truly a wonder for those who like to form close contact with nature and all its wonders. Since its discovery and made open for tourists, this location has become an enormous success as it has much to offer to travelers. While this place has gained recognition, it is not like the other tourist spots you generally visit. This is more like a natural splendidness that you can soak in as much as possible.

Here are some of the best places to visit when in the Galapagos Islands:

La Loberia: This place is located only 10 minutes away from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, situated on San Cristobal. It is a trendy beach that is easy to reach and is one of the most scenic places in the Galapagos Islands. It is the natural habitat to scores of sea lions and pups, which makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers. This beach is relatively small and has a crescent shape. The sea lions all over the beach, and they are respectful to humans. You will find them dozing on the rocks, and you must be respectful towards them as well. You may also come across sea turtles in the shallow crystal clear waters.

Tortuga Bay: If you are looking for one of the best beaches all over the world, Tortuga Bay is hands down the answer. The Powder white sand covering the outside of Puerto Ayora, located in Santa Cruz, makes it even better. However, this is not very easy to access, as you will have to walk for 40 minutes along a boardwalk that will lead you from the gatehouse. Even when the number of tourists is high, you will still enjoy the beach's peaceful and undisturbed beauty as it is expensive and beautiful. Make sure to leave, keeping enough time in hand as the gatehouse shuts down during the evening.

Kicker Rock: The Kicker Rock, also known as the León Dormido, rises quite noticeably from the ocean itself. You will be able to find it off the eastern coast of San Cristobal. While it is a beautiful sight in itself, it is very well known for snorkeling and diving. It has become so famous for watersports that the water around the Rock is abundant in marine life, including turtles and rays. It would help if you swam between the channels that run through the Kicker Rock for an absolutely wonderful and breathtaking experience.

Seymour: Seymour is a rather Barren Island that provides the perfect background for various avian life. Whether you have a knack for bird watching or not, you will be able to Marvel the beauty of nature like never before in this fantastic location. Some of the most flattering birds you will come across here include the Frigatebirds who have gullet pouches shaped like balloons. You will be able to spot them flying majestically and on the shrubs around The Island. You'll also be able to come across the absolutely adorable yet clumsy Blue Footed Boobies that are fixated by their blue feet to themselves. The number of tourists allowed to enter this Island is quite limited, making it almost similar to how it was during Darwin's time.

The Santa Cruz Highlands: The Santa Cruz highlands are among the most notable locations in the Galapagos Islands. What makes these islands so interesting is the broader range of tortoises that you will be able to come across here, some of them being more than a hundred years old. While the number of tortoises varies from time to time, depending on the particular season, you will still be able to find a sufficient number at all times. You will be able to enjoy their interaction with nature as they pad through to the various highland ranches in the leafy undergrowth. Make sure to visit the underground Lava tunnels and remember to look for the Los Gemelos, two of the giant volcanic sinkholes.

Las Tintoreras: Simply reaching the destination in itself is an amazing journey. You can reach this spot through a small boat ride from Puerto Villani. This is basically a tiny group of islets home to some of the unique creatures living in the Galapagos Islands. You will be able to come across a variety of sea turtles, a great letter of Penguins as well as hammerhead sharks found in the channels between the various rocks. While there are abundant aquatic animals, there are also animals on land, including gnarled lizards. As this location is quite close to Isabela and hence does not need you to spend a lot on transportation, you can enjoy this beautiful location without burning a hole in your pocket.

Puerto Ayora: This is the biggest developed city in the Galapagos Islands and is extremely beautiful and safe to spend a few days in. You will be able to get refreshed here, owing to the scenic beauty. There are a number of small bars and restaurants that you can spend your evenings in. These restaurants are generally located along with the Avenida Charles Darwin. You will be able to find the Charles Darwin Research Station on the northern end of the city, where hundreds of tortoises from all over the galloper goose Island are nourished before being released into nature. You will be able to find an afternoon fish market, which is a great place for you to and your day trip. You will be able to find some sea lions and pelicans here trying to get the scraps of meat.

Puerto Villamil: If you want to spend some time with nature and try a digital detox, this is the perfect city for you. While Puerto Ayora is relatively developed with a number of modern tools and technologies, Puerto Villamil is rather basic. The side streets are made from Lava rocks from the island itself, and you won't be able to find too many vehicles polluting the land. Unlike what you are used to, this city's main square is rather deserted at all times with some restaurants and buildings around it.

Darwin Island: Darwin Island is somewhat distant from the main Islands, which is one of the main reasons most cruise ships do not go to this location. While the Island has absolutely no dry landing sites, the unmistakable arch is one of the most significant structures all around the globe. The volume of marine life surrounding this earth is absolutely astounding. The water is cold here with strong currents, many marine animal species, including giant turtles, whale sharks, stingrays, and much more. While not many people visit this Island, those who do find this experience to be absolutely worthy.

Bartolome: While this location is unknown for animals or wildlife, this is still one of the most visited islands in the entire group of Islands. There are a number of boat trips available to these small Islets as it has the most stunning views. Steps have been carved into the side of an extinct volcano, and this short climb reaches you to a viewing platform with the best panoramic view of the neighboring islands as well as the Pinnacle rocks. The bay below this beach provides an absolutely amazing spot for snorkeling with numerous fish, turtles, and penguins.

Tortuga Bay

Explore

While a vacation may mean different things to different people, if you want to get refreshed and rejuvenated, this is your place to be. The islands have much to offer, and the most precious thing here is your connection with mother nature. You will be able to breathe fresh air and enjoy the bare beauty of nature first hand here.

City Parks

Almost the entirety of the Galapagos Islands has been recognized as a national park. You will be able to find a vast expanse of greenery where you can spend your time. However, there are not many areas that have been assigned City parks as most of the land area of the city belongs to the National Park. The entire Island has been understood as a vital place for scientists and those who like to have close contact with nature. Hence if you want to rewind and get refreshed, you have the islands at your disposal. However, when living and enjoy your time in the Galapagos Islands, please be respectful of the wildlife around you. It is also important that you come back home before evening as it might get pretty deserted.

National Parks

One of the most exciting facts about the Galapagos National Park is that more than 97% of the Galapagos Islands' land area is included in this National Park. The remaining 3% area has been distributed between Santa Cruz, Isabela, San Cristobal, Floreana, and Baltra. The Galapagos Islands was recognized as a Natural Heritage for Humanity in the year 1979 by UNESCO. This recognition made the park a permanent conservation effort for preserving the island.

The Galapagos National Park has been included as a Biosphere Reserve because the unique ecosystem and the island's educational aspect have to be maintained indefinitely. The Island is hands of extreme scientific value and has been an explicit location for one and all. You will find a number of interesting species, including Marine iguanas, a variety of birds, Galapagos crabs, colorful fish, white tip reef shark, Whale Sharks, Galapagos tortoise, to name a few.

The south plaza island in Galapagos Island

Beaches

Being an Islands, it is but natural that the Galapagos Islands will have quite many absolutely breathtaking beaches. While the island has been known as the home to some of the unique species of animals worldwide, it also features some of the most relaxing and beautiful beaches. These white sand beaches allow you to rewind and relax with iguanas, birds, and sea lions. While some of the beaches have already been mentioned before, here are some more that you must visit:

El Garrapatero: This beach is located in Santa Cruz Island and is known as the ticks beach. It is a somewhat less crowded beach that is just 30 minutes away from Puerto Ayora. If you reach the beach early enough, you will be able to be the first person on the beach and enjoy the whole beach to yourself. You may also be able to spot some flamingos here.

Puerto Chino: This beach is located on the San Cristobal island and is a 20-minute walk from the parking lot. This is the perfect place for you to come and relax with your family. You will also be able to find sea lions and finches on this beach.

Post Office Bay: This beach is located on Floreana Island. The fascinating history of this Island gives it this particular name. Homesick whalers used to leave letters here at Floreana Island, which used to be picked up by shops passing through and going to the UK or the USA. Even when the mails may take to reach the recipient, the service still stands today. Many tourists also send letters from here for a great experience.

Bachas Beach: This beach is located in Northern Santa Cruz. This is an extremely calming beach which smooth waves and is absolutely the perfect beach for a relaxing day. Various crabs and fish surround this beach, and you may also be able to find some flamingos here. Some abandoned rusty barges may also be spotted that date back to World war II.

Red Sand Beach: Red Sand Beaches are rather hard to find, and this one is located on Rabida Island. This beach provides you with a fantastic opportunity to come across brown pelicans, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and finches. While this is not the beach falling in the sand, it is definitely something extremely unique and worth your time.

Playa El Garrapatero

Landmarks

While most of the language has been discussed in the sections above already discussed below, Galapagos Island has even more to offer. Some of the most important natural landmarks in this region are as follows:

Volcan de Azufre: This volcano is situated on Isabela Island. The Fumarolic area lies in the crater of the Sierra Negra volcano. Terrestrial sulphuric flow has been noted, and this volcano is making it extremely rare.

Los Gemelos craters: This crater is located on Santa Cruz Island. It is identified as two large sinkholes that were created by the collapse of two gigantic Lava caves. An endemic and exotic Scalesia forest covers the sinkhole and the area surrounding it.

Forest of Daisy Trees: This forest is located in Santa Cruz and has an amazing cloud forest. The population of this forest is basically composed of Scalesia pedunculata trees. This is one of the most significant trees here and may grow up to 15 in length. These trees are endemic to the island and form a forest in many islands.

Española Island Vegetation: This vegetation in the Espanola island is one of the oldest in the archipelago, dating back to about 3.5 million. It has led to the generation of a number of endemic species, including hood mockingbird, Lava lizard, tortoise, and more. The waved albatross exclusively breeds in this area.

The James Bay Archeological Find: These constitute broken flames and pottery left on the cliffs and Plateau of the San Salvador beach. These are believed to have been left by the ancient South American culture.

Los Gemelos craters

Museums

The museums in the Galapagos Islands are generally dedicated to animal life. It is the home to a wide array of exciting and unique wildlife not available in any other place in the world. Some of the museums that you must visit when you come to the Galapagos Islands are as follows:

The Charles Darwin Research Station: This Museum is one of the most important ones in the Galapagos Islands. It is visited by most tourists and was established in the year 1959. It is established by a non-governmental organization to celebrate the works of Charles Darwin In The Island. The primary motive is to uphold scientific studies and provide environmental education in association with the Galapagos National Park in the most practical manner possible. With the help of a number of scientists, the Museum has been able to provide a number of papers and provide exclusive studies regarding Galapagos Island. There are various attractions in this Museum, including the tortoise, finches, arid zone vegetation, land iguanas, and much more.

The Miguel Cifuentes Arias Community Centre: This small museum is located very close to Tortuga Bay's main road. It is basically a community center with a few small complexes that have some classrooms. The small Museum here deals with several marine reserves and has a few aquariums with eels and lobsters in them. This little Museum will not take more than 15 minutes to visit and is an excellent place for you to get accustomed to the islands' cultural aspect.

The Galapagos National Park Interpretation Centre: This Museum was inaugurated in the year 1998 and is located on the northeast side of the Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. This Museum has a number of an interactive exhibit that provides information about the Galapagos Islands' biodiversity and history. While most people come here for the animals, the human history section is actually of more interest. You can participate in a self-guided walking tour that takes about an hour and is offered in both Spanish as well as English. This work is perfect for all age groups. You'll also find an excellent snorkeling spot and a beautiful beach just beside this interpretation center.

The Charles Darwin Research Station

Eat

When you are in Galapagos Island, you will be able to come across a number of food items that are peculiar to the island itself. You will not be able to find fancy dining restaurants in abundance. However, some of these are being developed. Most of the traditional food here obviously includes seafood, which is plentiful and featured almost in all restaurants. You will also find an exotic array of fruits and vegetables that are fresh and straight from the field.

Traditional Local Restaurants

When it comes to the traditional foods of the Islands, they definitely include a hefty range of seafood. Food in the Galapagos Islands is basically Ecuadorian food characterized by freshly grown or harvested ingredients. Most of the dishes here feature meat, chicken, fork and have garlic or cumin based seasoning. Most food here comes with a massive serving of rice, and you will always be able to find potatoes here.

Finch Bay Restaurant: This restaurant is part of the award-winning Finch Bay Hotel situated in Puerto Ayora Island. This is a relatively acceptable dining option in Galapagos Island, an amazing menu that will satisfy seafood lovers and those looking for a cultural experience.

Booby Trap: This restaurant has been known as the best on Isabela Island. While it is very well known for its Ecuadorian food options, it also boasts a tremendous American menu. From fish tacos to amazing desserts, you will be able to find it all here.

Isla Grill: This restaurant can be spotted on the main road of Puerto Ayora and is an excellent place for a fun time. You will find a great selection of alcoholic beverages with an extensive menu of food. From the best seafood to the absolute best steak, you will be able to find everything you want here.

Vegetarian and Vegan

When it comes to vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the Galapagos Islands, you will not find a number of vegan establishments here. While most of the Restaurants do serve some vegetarian dishes, there are not many Restaurants dedicated to either vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.

Some of the restaurants are as follows:

Fresco Cafe: While this is not a vegetarian or vegan restaurant, they have a wide selection of items that are Vegan and vegetarian friendly. The food options available here are lip-smacking, and you will be able to enjoy a wide range of cuisines here.

Otoy Restaurant Organic Farms: This is a cute and cozy establishment where you will be able to find a wide range of Vegan and vegetarian options. While the restaurant is not dedicated to this lifestyle, it has a fair number of items that you will enjoy if you follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. The staff here are absolutely amazing and will provide you with a remarkable experience here.

Bougainville Bar: This little restaurant is located on Santa Cruz island in Puerto Ayora. Since it is situated very close to the Charles Darwin center, it provides the perfect opportunity for tourists to come and enjoy a time of management with the most delicious food. The decoration of the space and itself is extraordinarily sustainable and has been made with recycled materials. This restaurant has gotten some of the best music, vibe, and food that will help you to get refreshed in no time at all.

Street Food

There is nothing like street food as it is the best way to get the best experience of umami in a place you are visiting. Not only are street food cheap, but also extremely flavourful. Some of the street food options in the Galapagos Islands as follows:

Los Kiskos: This is the cheapest place where you will be able to get your hands on the freshest fish and lobsters. This is a local and affordable street food option and a class of great activity. You will be able to find your fast food as well as excellent dinner food. Enjoy the freshest ingredients, and the food is cooked right in front of your own eyes.

Bros´Street Food: This street food joint is one of the most famous in the Galapagos Islands. It features some of the most mouth-watering food items and is truly an experience that you do not want to give up on. The best part about this place is that it uses fresh ingredients, making the food taste even better.

Kiosko de Renato: This street food joint is located in Puerto Ayora and is one of the most indulgent places in the Islands. While the food quality and itself is outstanding, the taste is also impressive. The street food joint provides seafood options as well as other Ecuadorian food.

Drink

While the Galapagos Islands is entirely remotely situated and has not been touched mostly by the modern revolution, you will be able to have a great time in the limited number of bars in the Islands. The best part about the Galapagos Islands is that, while there are not many establishments serving the cities, the ones available on the land are absolutely amazing.

You will find a great range of alcoholic beverages on the limited number of bars available in the Islands. However, if you do not particularly enjoy alcohol and would rather like to stay dry, you will be able to find a number of places serving fresh juices. One of the islands' essential aspects is that all food items are as fresh as possible, making them taste even better.

Tap-water

Tap water in Galapagos Island is not safe for human consumption. It would help if you always carried a bottle around with you because purchasing a water bottle every time you need a drink is extremely harmful to the environment. You can have a reusable bottle with yourself that can be filled from time to time. Make sure you do not drink the water available on the island as it is not suitable for human consumption and may make you fall sick.

Organic Cafés

When it comes to organic cafes, Galapagos Islands does not have the most comprehensive selection. However, You will be able to find some organic cafes if you look around the neighborhood. Some of the organic Cafe that you may be able to find here includes:

Green Food: This is an organic and vegan-friendly Cafe, where you will be able to find a number of vegan dishes as well as some of the best-crafted beer and drinks. Ingredients used in the restaurant are either freshly caught or freshly harvested, making them one of the best places in the City.

Breweries

While there are not some trees around the Galapagos Islands, you will be able to find sufficient numbers keeping in mind that the population of this Island is relatively low. Some of the breweries in the city are as follows:

Bongo bar
Santa Cruz Brewery
Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing
Seven Island Brewery
Tortugo Brewing Company
Wicked Weed Brewing Pub
Darwin Brewery Ltd
Sixpoint Brewery

Activities

The Galapagos Islands provide an excellent opportunity for those who like to stay active and interactive when it comes to a vacation. If you want to go out and explore nature and indulge in some adventure sport, the Galapagos Islands have to offer some of the best possibilities, keeping in mind that the underwater world here is absolutely phenomenal. You will be able to have the most magnificent time here if you are up for an adventure.

Galapagos Islands provides the best place for you to swim amidst the wildlife, deep into the water. If you have a knack for swimming, this is the best place for you. But, beware as the current here is pretty strong. Along with that, there are also snorkeling and scuba diving spots here with a variety of marine life waiting for you to interact with. However, please be respectful of the aquatic animals and the general wildlife of the area.

Yoga and Retreats

When it comes to various yoga centers and retreats in the Galapagos Islands, you will be able to find quite a number of these relaxing activities here. Private companies organize most of these activities and retreats, and you can book them before reaching the islands. The yoga retreats in the Galapagos Islands are incredibly calming and peaceful as you will be able to soak in the goodness of nature in the best way here.

Accommodation

While Galapagos Islands has been known as a tourist center for quite a while, it is still pretty untouched. Active efforts into conserving the original ecosystem of the place do not allow the building of a number of accommodations as that can harm the environment. For this reason, the number of accommodations in all forms is a little limited here compared to other tourist spots that you go to. It is for this reason that you must book your stay before you reach the islands. While you will find accommodations someplace around the islands, if you are looking for a place to stay on a particular island or a specific city, it is advised that you book your stay beforehand.

Green Hotels

As tourism's main aim in the Galapagos Islands is to make people aware of the delicate ecosystem here, most of the hotels that you will come across generally have ample means to make them sustainable, making the green hotels. You will be able to find a significant number of green hotels, and you must use the resources here, keeping in mind the best interest of the island and its ecosystem. Some of the green hotels here include:

Galapagos Eco Friendly: This is an excellent hotel with outstanding reviews. You will be able to enjoy a sustainable stay in this eco-hotel while enjoying sustainable living practices. The staff here are accommodating and will provide you with all things you need. The rooms and suites are equally enjoyable and are simply the best.

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel: This is a rather stylish Restaurant right across the beach, providing you with an elegant view of the ocean. It offers free breakfast and has an outdoor pool where you can enjoy your stay. Besides, the open-air restaurant is also a great attraction.

Pikaia Lodge: This is one of the most high-end hotels that you will come across in the Galapagos Islands. The eco-lodge here is exquisite and comes with an infinity pool as well as a relaxing spa service. The restaurant, just like the rooms, is extremely elegant and chic.

Red Booby: This is a rather affordable and casual restaurant that provides you with the necessary comforts and has almost all the resources you can ask for. Not only will you be able to enjoy free breakfast services here, but there is also an outdoor rooftop pool with a stunning view. The garden, as well as the bar, adds to the attractiveness of this hotel.

Hostels and Guest Houses

If you are looking for options to stay in the Galapagos Islands that will not burn a hole in your pocket, you will be able to find several hostels and guest houses that have excellent ratings and services. Most of these hostels and guest houses have been updated and have a great view. The best part about staying in a hostel or any other shared space is that you save up on a lot of money and help the environment as you do not waste resources by sharing them. It is also a great way to build a community whenever you are traveling. Some of the hostels and guest houses and Galapagos Islands as follows:

Hostels:

Hostal Casa Los Delfines
Sun Island Hostel
Hostal El Rincon De George
Maytenus Galapagos
Tongo Reef
Gladys Mar
Casa de Laura
Flightless Cormorant

Guest Houses:

Mi Caleta Inn
Bay View House
La Peregrina
Blue Heron Galápagos Villa
The Finch House (La Casa del Pinzón)
La K-leta
CASA DEL LAGO LODGING HOUSE
Cattleya
Casa La Iguana

Apartments

If you are a student or have a job at the Galapagos Islands, it makes more sense for you to book an apartment for your stay in the islands. Staying in an apartment is better as you will have the place to yourself for your entire visit and not worry about extra expenses. Being one of the biggest hubs around the world when it comes to environmental studies, Galapagos Islands has many visitors, making it important for these apartments to be ready for visitors. Some of the best apartments here include:

Patty Hospedaje: This apartment is located in Puerto Ayora, and every room has air conditioning and a flat-screen TV with a DVD player and cable channels. You will be able to enjoy a great view from this room, and the bathrooms are equipped with showers as well as baths.

Bay View House: These apartments come with several facilities, including a flat-screen TV, sofa, desk, dining table, and fully functional kitchen. While the location is terrific, the rooms are immaculate and comfortable with luxurious bathrooms.

The Galapagos Suites: The suites in this apartment come with a balcony and are fully air-conditioned. You will be able to enjoy a full kitchen covered with a refrigerator, microwave oven, stovetop, kettle, and coffee maker. A number of cooking essentials such as coffee, sugar, bread, tea, and more are provided free of charge. You will be able to get gas-heated water in the bathroom as well.

Galapagos Coral: This apartment in the Galapagos island comes with an air-conditioned room as well as a fully functioning kitchen with a variety of kitchenware and refrigerator. You will be able to enjoy a private bathroom with free toiletries, and the Garden view from the room is also quite enticing.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is an excellent way to stay in a place like the Galapagos Islands. Since there are not many people living in this area, with the help of couch surfing, you will be able to make a friend roam the city around with. You will be able to find the great Couchsurfing offers at www.couchsurfing.com.

Camping

If you love to camp, Galapagos Islands is the right place for you to camp as it comes with a number of camping sites, which include:

Luis Fernando Caisaguano
Volcán Chico (El Cura sector) in Isabela island
The Galapagos National Park Directorate
Puerto Chino in San Cristobal island
Minas de Azufre in Isabela island
Playa Garrapatero in Santa Cruz Island

How to Get There

The Galapagos Islands is quite a connected place keeping in mind that it has many tourists and students coming over to the islands all around the year. You will be able to find modes of transportation to and from this site pretty quickly.

Air

Being a remote location, it is not cheap to reach the Galapagos Islands, and the options are tight but many. The island's only way to be accessed is from Quito or the Guayaquil airport, from where airplanes depart regularly for the San Cristobal Airport and the Isla Baltra Airport. The San Cristobal Airport is 1km away from the center of the Galapagos province, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. In comparison, the Isla Baltra Airport is around 2km from the biggest town in the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Ayora.

People lining up at the San Cristobal Airport

Bus

Since the islands are on the Pacific Ocean, you cannot access it by bus.

A local tourist bus

Train

Since the islands are on the Pacific Ocean, you cannot access it by train.

Hitchhiking

Since the islands are on the Pacific Ocean, you cannot access it merely by hitchhiking.

Others

You can make special arrangements if you want to visit the Islands on a private yacht. Preparation for arrival has to be made 60 days before your visit. The customs can be cleared in either Puerto Ayora or Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Any private boat coming to the five ports in the Galapagos Islands and remain there for as long as 21 days. If you want to visit more than one Island using your yacht, you will require special permission from the National Park.

Moving Around

Moving around, the Galapagos Islands has a restricted number of options as the islands are situated all over the Pacific Ocean. However, if you want to stay on one particular Island and access it from one area to another, you can use other means as well.

Walk

Walking is the best way for you to roam around the island as it provides you with the perfect opportunity to get in touch with nature. You can walk across towns in around 30 minutes, making it very easy for you to walk around the city.

Bicycle

You will be able to rent bicycles when you are in the Galapagos Islands, and it is a great way to get around the city. It provides you with a sustainable means to move around without having to spend a lot of money. Haggling is not a common practice in Galapagos Island; however, you might ask around different shops to understand the average price.

Electronic Vehicles

Electronic vehicles have not yet been introduced in the Galapagos Islands as a means of public transportation.

Public Bus

You will not be able to find a public bus in the Galapagos Islands. The best and cheapest way to get around from one Island to another within the Galapagos Islands is the boat.

Tram, Train and Subway

There are no trams or railway services in the Galapagos Islands.

Sustainable Shopping

It is natural for you to want to buy things and souvenirs to bring back home. However, in doing so, you must keep in mind that you are not causing any destruction to the nature of the delicate Islands' ecosystem. It is for this reason that you must only choose to buy sustainably and from local sellers. In this way, you can make sure that you are taking the correct steps and maintaining sustainability in the environment.

Food Markets

Food markets in Galapagos Island are known for their fresh produce as well as the plethora of seafood. Some of the best food markets in the Galapagos Islands are as follows:

Proinsular Market
Galapagos Deli
Galapagos Dreams
La Garrapata Galapagos Restobar
William
Kiosko de Renato
Parque Nacional Galápagos

Flea Markets

There are not a number of flea markets in the Galapagos Islands.

Second Hand Stores

The number of second-hand stores and the Galapagos Islands is rather limited. Some of them include:

Salvos Winnellie
Cash Advantage Darwin City
Vinnies Stuart Park
Nightcliff Uniting Church Op Shop
Too Much Stuff Market
Vinnies Casuarina

Eco-Fashion

Although you might be able to find some thrift shops in the Galapagos Islands, eco-fashion has not been introduced here yet.

Recycling

Being so close to nature, the Galapagos Islands have to develop a number of sustainable ways for waste management to preserve the ecosystem of this beautiful island. For this reason, the Galapagos Islands is way ahead of many modern cities When it comes to Recycling. They have been using this practice for years and have made it a second nature of the city. There are no landfills or other modern waste management methods in the islands, making Recycling the only and most important means of recycling in the Galapagos Islands.

Waste

Since tourism has become one of the Galapagos Islands' biggest characteristics, the amount of waste generated has also increased manifold. However, it is important to deal with these waste materials so that the Galapagos Islands' delicate nature can be preserved for yours to come. It is for this reason that there are a number of waste management methods implemented in the Islands. While the island has a strict no trash policy, most of the materials here are recycled in order to maintain the sanctity of the place.

Work and Study Abroad

There are a number of people who come to the Galapagos Islands in order to work or study. The Galapagos Island has become one of the biggest centers of environmental education and education regarding wildlife, attracting a number of students every year. since the Galapagos Island has been preserved for the generations to come, it has become a haven for those interested in environmental education as well as in the preservation of a number of species. The Galapagos National Park also hires a number of workers every year, making it a site for jobs for those who are eagerly interested in the environment.

Exchange Student

While a number of students come here every year, the concept of exchange Student is not yet very famous on the Galapagos Islands.

Au Pair

Au Pair has not yet been very popular in the Galapagos Islands. However, you may find such services in your locality.

Volunteering

There are a number of locations around the Galapagos Islands where you can volunteer your time and energy. Some of these institutions include:

The Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD)
The Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF)
Hacienda Tranquil
Hacienda Esperanza