The Galapagos archipelago sits astride the equator, 960 kilometres west of the Ecuadorian mainland. Having never been connected to another landmass, these volcanic islands have a unique biological identity.
Sealions, seals, dolphins, and whales are present throughout the archipelago due to a constant supply of nutrient rich water brought up from the depths of the Pacific Ocean by the Humboldt Current.
Underwater highlights include encounters with manta and eagle rays, whale sharks and walls of hammmerhead sharks, marine iguanas, massive shoals of fish, Galapagos sharks, penguins and fur seals. The timing of your visit may depend on the marine life. Whilst hammerhead sharks are seen throughout the year, the manta season is typically Dec-May with a water temperature of 21-31C and the whale shark season from Jun-Nov with a water temperature of 16-24C. Galapagos green turtles return annually to lay their eggs from Dec-Mar.
As you may expect, the islands are home to a wealth of seabirds, and other species that include the unique finches which played such a prominent role in the development of Darwin’s seminal work, The Origin of Species. Among the many other birds you can expect to see include boobies, tropicbirds and frigatebirds.
On land, most of the flora and fauna has its distant origins in the equatorial South American mainland, yet over millions of years – through a process of isolation, evolution and adaptation – species endemic to the islands have formed. In addition, the absence of large predators means that wildlife on the Galapagos shows little or no fear of man, and it is possible to approach birds, mammals and reptiles openly and very closely – a photographer's dream!
The ultimate trip for whale shark enthusiasts, this unique dive safari cruises the Galapagos Islands during whale shark season under the guidance of marine biologist and whale shark expert, Sofía Green Iturralde. Find Out More about Galapagos Whale Shark Expedition
Discover the Galapagos Islands on this nine night adventure, staying at comfortable lodges on Santa Cruz and Isabela. Diving highlights include rays, sharks and sea lions, before getting up close to giant tortoises on land. Find Out More about Galapagos Islands Dive Adventure
The Galapagos Islands are a must for all experienced divers. Encounter silky, Galapagos, hammerhead and whale sharks from the comfort of a liveaboard, and come face to face with unique wildlife topside. Find Out More about Galapagos Liveaboard
Set amongst the forest in the highlands of Santa Cruz, this family run lodge is perfectly located for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the unique nature of the Galapagos Islands. Find Out More about Casa Natura Galapagos Lodge
Located on the island of Santa Cruz, this luxurious eco-friendly lodge affords a unique position overlooking Academy Bay and the local red mangrove forest. A great spot for wildlife encounters. Find Out More about Galapagos Habitat
Join the Aqua liveaboard for a Galapagos diving adventure to the top sites. Plus, combine a week-long dive itinerary with an extension to discover the natural beauty and wildlife of the islands. Find Out More about Aqua Galapagos
This 30 metre vessel was designed as one of the fastest, most stable and most comfortable liveaboards sailing the Galapagos. Itineraries include Wolf and Darwin Islands, with up to four dives a day. Find Out More about Galapagos Humboldt Explorer
This luxurious 30 metre liveaboard offers week long itineraries in the Galapagos. Diving highlights include sharks, rays and dolphins around the Wolf and Darwin Islands, as well as several land excursions. Find Out More about Galapagos Sky
Explore the magical world of the Galapagos Islands with the Aggressor Fleet onboard their premier liveaboard. Custom designed and built for divers, facilities on board are modern and spacious. Find Out More about Galapagos Aggressor III
