Galapagos Islands is the year-round departure port for expedition cruises to the archipelago, with Lindblad Expeditions home porting there for sailings scheduled in every month of the year.
Straddling the equator some six hundred miles off Ecuador's coast, the Galapagos Islands remain one of the planet's most extraordinary wildlife sanctuaries. Giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions show little fear of visitors, having evolved with few natural predators. The archipelago's volcanic origins are still visible in its stark lava fields, craters, and black-sand shores, while surrounding waters teem with rays, sharks, and colorful reef fish. Charles Darwin's 1835 visit here helped shape his theory of natural selection, and the islands remain a touchstone for scientific study.
Most calls anchor offshore, with landings by smaller boats onto the islands themselves, as few ports accommodate large vessels directly. Santa Cruz, home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, serves as a common gateway for exploring the region's protected national park. Strict conservation rules govern every visit, preserving trails and habitats that make this destination unlike anywhere else on earth.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Galapagos Islands.
Snorkel with Sea Lions
Slip into the water off a panga landing to swim alongside curious sea lions, rays, and reef fish; many sites also offer chances to spot reef sharks. Wetsuits and gear are typically arranged locally, so pack a swimsuit and towel.
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
Walk the easy trails of this Santa Cruz facility to see giant tortoise breeding programs up close and learn about ongoing conservation work. It's a short walk from the main dock, making it an easy first stop.
Hike Volcanic Highlands to See Wild Tortoises
Head inland to the humid highlands, where giant tortoises roam freely through farmland and forest, offering a very different landscape from the coast's lava fields. Guided visits usually last two to three hours and require sturdy walking shoes.
