Galapagos Sky

The Galápagos Islands lie on the equator 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. Evolved over millennia and isolated from any continental landmass, the Galápagos enjoys a completely unique biodiversity that is simply spectacular. These actively volcanic islands host a distinct and unique flora and fauna, including prehistoric creatures found nowhere else on earth.

Thirteen primary islands, five smaller islands and numerous islets and rock formations make up part of the Ecuadorian National Park System and are a World Heritage site in their own right. This includes the world-famous diving mecca of Darwin & Wolf.

Diving

Several oceanic currents meet in the island group. This has led to an abundance of marine life that has few equals anywhere in the world. The mixed temperature range underwater delivers a fascinating and rarely seen mix of tropical and temperate fish species.

Many divers are drawn to the Galápagos by the presence of large schools of rays and sharks, which are encountered year round. Various species of turtle breed in the islands, whilst endemic marine iguanas have adapted to local conditions, feeding off the sea algae that thrives in the waters that surround the islands. Inquisitive fur seals and penguins provide divers with unforgettably thrilling shows as they perform their aquatic acrobatic displays. Occasionally divers are afforded an encounter with some of the islands rare species like Mola Mola, flightless Cormorants and the Galápagos Bullhead shark.

Whale Sharks & More Whales

From May to November cooler currents rich in nutrients attract many of the great pelagic plankton feeders. During these months, The Galápagos Islands are recognised as one of the world’s best locations to encounter Whale Sharks in large numbers. Numerous species of whales are also regularly seen in the Galápagos over these months. The most common encounters are with Melon Headed, Pilot and Humpback whales that migrate to the coast of Ecuador in August and September. Water temperature can vary from 17–24ºC.

Manta Rays & More Rays

In December to April, the waters rise slightly in temperature with shifting Oceanic currents, and in come the rays. Water temperature is a slightly warmer 21–26ºC. Large Mantas, schools of Mobula rays, Cow-Nosed rays, Spotted Eagle rays and Marble rays are frequent visitors.

Darwin & Wolf

These two islands are located 14 hours sailing north of the main island group. The seas surrounding Wolf and Darwin support large concentration of the marine life that makes the Galápagos the dive destination that it is. Certainly no dive itinerary to the Galápagos is complete without a visit to Darwin and Wolf. Schools of hammerheads, dolphins and rays make these islands a highlight for many divers visiting the Galápagos. The whale shark aggregation occurs in the warmer water surrounding these islands.

Hammerhead sharks and other shark species make regular appearances in numbers year round.

Above Water

Because of their isolation, most species have evolved in different ways to their mainland relatives and even within the archipelago species have developed differently. Of the extraordinary animals to be found many are reptiles, such as the great tortoise, large land iguanas, numerous lizards and three species of non-poisonous snakes.

Up to three quarters of a million seabirds flock to the islands, including a third of the world's blue footed boobies, frigate birds, pelicans, cormorants, albatross and petrels. Aside from the extraordinary marine and land borne wildlife, the islands themselves are a fascinating place to walk around, with dramatic volcanic cones and solidified lava flows.

For a map of the Galápagos Islands please click here

Land-based Extensions

Regaldive holidays to the Galápagos Islands are completely tailor made to your personal requirements, giving the option to extend your liveaboard holiday with a land-based stay for as many nights as you choose. With so much to discover in the Galápagos, we recommend an extension on one of the central islands. Please contact the Regaldive Team for help planning your Galápagos Islands holiday.

Flight Information

It's possible to reach Ecuador from the UK via Europe, or via the USA. Common routings include travelling via either Amsterdam or Madrid. The Galápagos Islands are then reached via a 90-minute flight from Quito or Guayaquil, normally flying into San Cristobal.

Extra nights: A minimum of one night on the outbound and one night on the inbound is required in Quito or Guayaquil, due to international flight schedules and internal flights.

We encourage divers to stay on the Ecuador mainland two nights before travelling onto the Galápagos. You are travelling a long way on the trip of a lifetime and we want you to join your liveaboard rested and hydrated. This also helps in case your luggage is delayed.

Visas

Entry requirements vary from country to country, and it’s important to check the latest visa information well before you travel. Some destinations may allow visa-free entry for a limited period, while others require an eVisa or a visa obtained in advance. To ensure you have the correct documentation for your trip, we recommend checking the official advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or contacting the relevant country’s embassy or consulate. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.

Passports

Before you travel, make sure your passport is valid for the full duration of your trip and meets the entry requirements of your destination. Many countries require at least six months’ validity beyond your planned return date, while others may have different rules. For the most reliable and up-to-date information, visit the UK Government’s passport guidance or the official travel advice pages for your destination. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.

If you’re planning to travel to or via an EU country (with certain exceptions) your UK passport must meet two key requirements, it must be less than 10 years old on the day you enter the country and it must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure date.

Vaccinations & Health Advice

Health and vaccination requirements differ depending on where you're travelling. Some destinations may require proof of specific vaccinations or recommend certain precautions to protect your wellbeing.

We’re not qualified to provide you with specific advice on vaccinations and strongly recommend that you contact your healthcare professional before you travel to discuss the inoculations you may need to consider.

For trusted guidance on health and vaccination advice, refer to the NHS Travel Vaccination Advice, Masta Travel Health or Travel Health Pro websites.