GALAPAGOS GUIDES · WILDLIFE
Animals that do not run away.
Giant tortoises, marine iguanas, boobies, penguins and sea lions. Where to find them, and when.
Galapagos wildlife — Reference image only.
Iconic animals and where to see them
| Animal | Best places | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Giant tortoise | Santa Cruz highlands, Isabela | Most routes |
| Waved albatross | Española (about April to December) | Eastern |
| Galapagos penguin | Isabela, Fernandina, sometimes Bartolomé | Western |
| Flightless cormorant | Isabela, Fernandina | Western |
| Red-footed booby | Genovesa | Northern |
| Blue-footed booby | North Seymour, Española, many coasts | Most routes |
| Marine iguana | Fernandina, Española, everywhere | All routes |
| Sea lion | Most beaches | All routes |
Wildlife highlights by month
Pick a month. Seasons vary year to year; these are typical patterns.
January
- Warm season begins; green sea turtles nesting.
- Land iguanas breeding on some islands.
February
- Warm, calm seas; good snorkeling.
- Flamingos nesting in some lagoons.
March
- Warmest water of the year.
- Marine iguana nesting on some islands.
April
- Waved albatross start arriving on Española.
- Green sea turtle eggs hatching.
May
- Blue-footed booby courtship on North Seymour.
- Albatross courtship on Española.
June
- Cool season begins; richer seas.
- Whale shark season for divers starts in the far north.
July
- Seabird activity high; cooler water.
- Whales and dolphins seen more often in the west.
August
- Sea lion pupping begins on some islands.
- Garúa mist in the highlands.
September
- Coolest water; strong upwelling.
- Penguins active in the west.
October
- Fur seal mating season.
- Blue-footed boobies raising chicks.
November
- Sea lion pups playful on beaches.
- Seas begin to calm.
December
- Warm season begins; giant tortoise eggs hatching.
- Last albatross leave Española.
How close can you get?
Park rules ask visitors to keep a respectful distance, never touch or feed animals and stay on trails. Read the distance rules and what animals you will see.
Wildlife lovers: see our Galapagos Wildlife by Month guide.
Galapagos Wildlife Guide: questions
What animals can you see in Galapagos?
Giant tortoises, marine and land iguanas, sea lions, fur seals, penguins, boobies, frigatebirds, albatross, sea turtles, rays and many fish.
When is the best time for wildlife?
Every month has highlights; see the month planner above.
Are sightings guaranteed?
No. Wildlife is wild, but many species are reliably seen at the right sites.
Where are penguins?
Mostly in the west, around Isabela and Fernandina.
Which route suits my wildlife list?
Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises with your list and dates.
Send us your wildlife wish list.
We match the route and month to the animals you most want to see.
Galapagos is unlike anywhere else on Earth: wildlife that does not run from you, islands still shaped by volcanoes, and a park that limits every visit. Tell us how you like to travel and we will match you with the right boat.