Where can you see Galapagos penguins?

Galapagos penguins, the only penguins that live naturally at the equator, are found mainly along the western coasts of Isabela and Fernandina, where cold upwelling keeps fish close to shore.

A small group also lives around Bartolomé, near Santiago, which is the spot most often visited on central and eastern routes. The birds are small, about 20 inches (50 cm) tall, and are usually seen from a panga ride along the shore or while snorkeling.

Western-route cruises give the best odds. Land-based visitors staying on Isabela can sometimes see them on guided day tours from Puerto Villamil, but sightings are never guaranteed. The species is endangered, and numbers drop after strong El Niño years.