The Galapagos Islands are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, scientists and of course tourists too.
The archipelago includes 19 islands and is museum A living nature where you can see species that are found nowhere else on the planet.
Explore the amazing Galapagos Islands in Ecuador
The most expensive and cheapest way to see the Galapagos Islands
The most expensive way to see the Galapagos Islands is on multi-day cruises.
Cruises usually cover a large group of islands and you will get the chance to see the outlying islands with a good chance to observe various sea mammals and birds.
But prices vary greatly, with the most expensive luxury cruises costing up to $10,000, and the cheapest economy cruises between $400 and $2,000.
While the cheapest way to see the Galapagos Islands is to arrive in Puerto Ayora and book day trips from there.

Rabida Island

Lots of stunning and charming views on the islands.
What islands are a must see?
There are 13 main islands with six smaller islands in the Galapagos Islands.
Some islands are so unique that you can discover species that are found nowhere else but on that island.
However, many species can be seen on multiple islands as well.

Animal species that do not exist anywhere else in the world

The distinctive frigate bird
Most popular islands to visit
Santa Cruz is a great starting point for many of the islands.
And on the island itself, you can see giant tortoises in their natural habitat, not to mention beautiful beaches The witch.
As for Fernandina It is the smallest island in the Galapagos Islands, where you can find rare species that you will not find on other islands.
It is also located Spanish In the far southwest you can spot lava lizards, albatrosses and marine iguanas.
As for EIsabella It is the largest island in the Galapagos Islands, where you can see a wide range of distinctive animal species such as flamingos, penguins, giant tortoises and sea lions to name a few.
You can also take a day trip to the Sierra Negra volcano.
If you want to explore both the volcanoes and the wildlife, you should take a two-day trip.

Volcanic landscapes on the islands

Charming beaches on the islands
What animals can be seen in the Galapagos Islands?
The Galapagos Islands are home to many animals that live only in the archipelago, such as marine iguanas, Galapagos tortoises, penguins and Darwin's finches.
You can also see other incredible animals such as the fearsome wild iguana, the strange and wonderful frigate birds, and the list goes on.

wild iguana

Giant tortoises
When to visit the islands
You can visit the Galapagos Islands at any time of the year, however, there are warmer seasons and cooler seasons.
The warmest season is from December to May, and the peak season is from June to August.
If you are interested in certain species and animals, it might be a good idea to visit during the mating season.
Giant tortoise eggs hatch in January and December, while the mating season for blue-footed birds is in May, where you can watch the amazing courtship dance they perform to get close to females.

Espanola Island
Some important rules to follow when visiting the Galapagos Islands
Do not get closer than two metres to any plants or animals.
Do not ride on turtles or touch any animals.
Do not walk off the trails.
Do not use flash when photographing animals.
Do not visit inhabited islands without a tour guide.
You will be required to pay a $100 entrance fee upon arrival.
Do not take any organic material such as rocks, shells or plants when you leave the islands.

Sea lion on an inhabited island