Last Updated on June 12, 2024 by AIFS Abroad
Recognized as one of the best destinations in the world for wildlife viewing, the Galápagos Islands’ natural beauty is exceptional.
A tip for outdoor enthusiasts: if a trip to the Galápagos isn’t on your bucket list yet, add it on! A typical day in the Galápagos has potential for discoveries at every turn.
Here are 5 of the best ways to get up close and personal with the Galápagos Islands’ wildlife.
1. Visit the Rancho Primicias
A visit to Rancho Primicias is a must while in the Galápagos. Here, you’ll get up close and personal with the largest species of tortoise in the world, the Galápagos giant tortoise.
Fun fact: these gentle giants keep growing until they’re 40 – 50 years old and can weigh up to 500 pounds!
2. Spend a Day at Tortuga Bay
The white sand beaches and equatorial sunshine aren’t the only reasons tourists flock to Tortuga Bay. Outdoor enthusiasts put Tortuga Bay on their bucket lists because of its magnificent population of sea turtles, marine iguanas, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.
3. Explore La Lobería
Located near Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristóbal Island, La Lobería is a scenic beach and home to swarms of sea lions. You can also spot wild iguanas, lava lizards, yellow warblers and frigates here as well.
4. Snorkel or Scuba Dive
Aquatic lovers will be delighted to explore the Galápagos Islands’ marine life. Though the Islands’ turquoise blue waves are alluring from the surface, the real treasure is underneath – with colorful tropical fish, sea horses, sharks, sea lions, penguins and sea turtles galore.
5. Take a Bird-Watching Tour
As the sight of Charles Darwin’s famous observations, it should come as no surprise that the Galápagos Islands are unbeatable when it comes to bird-watching. There are 45 species of birds here that you can’t find elsewhere including Galápagos penguins, Darwin’s finches, waved albatrosses and blue-and-red footed boobies.
Have the Galápagos Islands found their way onto your bucket list? Learn more about studying abroad in the Galápagos Islands with AIFS!
