Hiking in the Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are a collection of unspoilt islets scattered across the coast of Ecuador. As one of the most biodiverse places in the world, the archipelago offers the ultimate destination for nature lovers from all over the globe.
Considering the number of outdoor attractions in this extraordinary paradise, it comes as no surprise that hiking is one of the best ways to see the Galapagos Islands.
So, pack your walking boots and set off across some of the world’s most unique terrain, trekking around active volcanoes and breathtaking beaches. In this article, we have put together a list of the most incredible walks on the archipelago to show you how to have the most sensational time possible hiking in the Galapagos Islands.
Can You Hike in the Galapagos Islands?
Despite being famed for its magnificent natural beauty and remarkable wildlife species, many travellers wonder if you can hike in the Galapagos Islands. We’re here to set the matter straight: you absolutely can. The untamed landscapes of the archipelago make wonderful places to explore on two feet.
If you’re planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands and are wondering what to pack, comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must. Much of the terrain that you’ll be walking through will be rough and unstable so you won’t want to be braving them in flip flops!
Sunglasses, sunblock and a sun hat are also essentials that will protect you from the wrath of the climate’s glorious rays. Lastly, be sure to pack lots of water and snacks for your expeditions as you are sure to work up an appetite and will need to stay hydrated.
Don’t forget the binoculars or your camera either as you’ll be encountering some superb sights that you’ll want to witness in all of their glory!
Hiking on Bartolome Island
Despite being one of the smallest in the archipelago, Bartolomé Island is home to some of the best places for a Galapagos hike. It boasts some of the most incredible and iconic attractions such as Pinnacle Rock, one of the most famous sites in the archipelago.
The celebrated volcanic formation is one of the most photographed sights in the whole of the archipelago and it is no wonder why. Pinnacle Rock is a striking, spear-like volcanic cone that rises right out of the water.
Pinnacle Rock Viewpoint
Hiking to the lookout point over Pinnacle Rock is sure to be a highlight for anyone exploring the area as it is the best thing to do on Bartolome Island. While this is one of the shorter treks on offer, it certainly isn’t one for the faint-hearted.
The walk to Pinnacle Rock involves a steep climb over a 114-meter wooden staircase. However, the fascinating surrounding scenery makes for a terrific excuse to stop for a break and take some photos. The trail is lined with a variety of unique rock formations such as lava tubes and spatter cones.
As you reach the summit, prepare to be left in awe as you are greeted with a truly sensational view over Pinnacle Rock. Daphne Major, Daphne Mindor and the rest of Bartolomé Island will also be visible, creating the most phenomenal sight.
Be sure to snap plenty of photos to remember this miraculous view before beginning your descent. When you reach the bottom, you will be able to enjoy the surreal experience of catching your breath in the company of the island’s lively penguin colony that has made its home at the foot of the rock.
These adorable creatures are sure to capture your heart as they are one of the most popular animals on the Galapagos Islands.
Hiking on Isabela Island
Isabela Island is one of the best islands to visit in the Galapagos Islands. It is the largest landmass in the archipelago and was formed by the joining of five young volcanoes, leaving the area with a fascinatingly unique terrain of lava fields and limited vegetation.
The islet’s extraordinary volcanic landscape makes hiking on Isabela one of the best things to do on the Galapagos islands. So, strap up your laces and get exploring!
Sierra Negra
As one of the primary active volcanoes in the archipelago, a trek to Sierra Negra is certainly one of the most exciting things to do on Isabela Island. You’ll have a choice of two hiking trails at this spot, each varying in length.
The shorter option is between three and four kilometers and takes you along the rim of the Volcan Chico section of the volcano. Upon reaching its edge, you’ll be met with a glorious sight as the volcanic formation spreads as far as the eye can see, with a diameter almost 10 km wide.
Gazing over at the remnants of the most recent eruption serves as a surreal reminder of the untamed nature of the islands. For those of you wanting to do the longer walk, the trail takes a day to complete and extends 11km each way.
This route will take you to Volcan de Azufre, the area of sulfur fumaroles. While choosing this longer option can seem rather daunting, it is worth bearing in mind that your efforts will be rewarded with phenomenal views over the inside and outside of the crater.
Hiking on Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island is one of the most popular islands to visit in the Galapagos and has become something of a tourist hub in the archipelago. The landmass is also home to the largest town in the Galapagos, Puerto Ayora.
For this reason, it often serves as the departure point for many of the cruises and tours on the island. However, that’s not to say that Santa Cruz Island isn’t worth a visit in itself. You’ll find many of the archipelago’s finest attractions dotted about this island’s gorgeous coastline and sweeping highlands.
Tortuga Bay
While many of the walking trails in the Galapagos need to be completed under the supervision of a local guide, you can hike to Tortuga Bay, one of the best beaches in the Galapagos Islands, all by yourself. Your adventure begins on the southwestern edge of the town.
From here, you will embark on a 3km expedition to the white sand shores of Tortuga Bay. The walk tends to take around an hour each way. Throughout the journey, you are sure to be kept entertained by the unique plant life and flamingos that will cheer you on along the way.
The main area of the beach tends to garner rather strong currents but you’ll find mellow waters at the lagoon towards the far end of the shoreline. Cool off after your hike with a dip in these crystal clear waters.
To add to the excitement, many of the archipelago’s greatest creatures are likely to join you for your swim such as the marine iguanas, Sally lightfoot crabs and blue-footed boobies.
Cerro Dragon
For those of you wondering how to see wildlife in the Galapagos Islands, you might want to take a hike… to Cerro Dragon, also known as Dragon Hill. The rocky hill lies on the opposite side of the island to Puerto Ayora, where the rare land iguana and flamingos reign supreme amongst the forests of Opuntia Cactus.
When you reach the shore of Cerro Dragon, you will be met by a fantastic scene of jagged volcanic rocks and tide pools. Lying amongst the black rugged shores, you will find a forest of prickly pear cacti that offer a splash of color against the dark landscape.
Regarding the wildlife, you will cross paths with a plethora of shore birds including brown pelicans and frigate birds. Bright red Sally Lightfoot crabs and marine iguanas are also likely to pop out to congratulate you on your journey.
San Cristobal Island
Cerro Tijeretas
Cerro Tijeretas, also known as Frigate Hill, is an elevated point on San Cristobal Island renowned for its dense population of frigate birds. This is one of the easier hikes in the Galapagos Islands as the entire trail is flat and paved.
One thing to be aware of is the lack of shade offered along this route. So, be sure to load up on sunblock, wear a sunhat and pack plenty of water when doing this walk. The trail will gradually gain a slight incline, before turning into a long staircase that marks the final leg of the journey.
After completing the last few steps, a sublime view over Darwin’s Cove will come into view leaving you without any wonder as to why this is one of the best things to do on San Cristobal Island.
From here, you will be treated to divine vistas over the azure coastline and be able to spot turtles and sea lions snoozing and frolicking by the water. The summit will also offer a wonderful angle for seeing the huge frigate birds which often rest in the trees below.
Hiking on North Seymour Island
North Seymour is one of the best islands to see in the Galapagos Islands as it is renowned for being a bird watcher’s paradise. The uninhabited land mass lies completely unspoilt and is home to a vibrant population of blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls and frigate birds.
The islet is located in the center of the archipelago, close to Baltra and Santa Cruz. In contrast to most of the other islands in the archipelago, North Seymour is not a volcano. It was created as a result of seismic activity.
This unique creation story has endowed North Seymour Island with a distinctive landscape that is certainly worth exploring on foot.
North Seymour Island
The small flat landmass has two walking trails, each of which loops around the island’s coastline through a spectacle of cacti and Palo Santo trees. If you’re on the lookout for a Galapagos walk to see blue-footed boobies, this is certainly the place for you.
Both of the trails on the island lead you through flourishing populations of these funky-footed creatures. If you time your visit right, you might just be able to catch their elaborate mating dance. The flashy-toed males strut their stuff, showing off their blue feet to potential matches.
Plus, you’ll also encounter colonies of frigate birds. If you’re visiting during the right season, you’ll catch their mating ritual which involves them inflating their snappy red pouches to the size of a soccer ball; a fascinating spectacle to see.
Yet, the exciting wildlife is certainly not limited to the birdlife on this island. You’ll also find sea lions lazing on the shores and land iguanas roaming throughout the vegetation.
Summary
If you’re wondering what to do in the Galapagos Islands ahead of your trip, rest assured that hiking is one of the most spectacular activities to get up to in this extraordinary corner of the world. From fascinating volcanic landscapes to glorious views over the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean, trekking in the Galapagos is a magical experience for all.
While the natural scenery is nothing short of breathtaking, it is often the endemic animals that you bump into during your adventures that make the experience so special. Catch your breath in the company of the only penguin species found north of the equator on Bartolome, have a welcoming committee of electric-blue footed boobies at Tortuga Bay, and cool off with marine iguanas, the only lizards in the world able to live at sea, along the beaches of Cerro Dragon.
Want to investigate the fascinating landscapes of the Galapagos Islands for yourself? Touring Galapagos offers yacht and tour packages that will take you to all of the top walking sites in the archipelago. Get in contact to start planning your trip to this natural paradise.