Top 5: Iconic Animals of the Galapagos Islands

The most famous archipelago in the world will undoubtedly surprise you. The most beautiful islands, magical landscapes, and unforgettable adventures could not be complete without wildlife watching. Witness the evolution of unique animals in the world, those that inspired Charles Darwin during his journey through the archipelago.

Would you like to know that he makes them so special? We invite you to discover our TOP 5: Iconic animals of the Galapagos Islands.

Keep reading until the end and discover the most iconic endemic species of the islands, which you should definitely know on your next visit to this paradisiacal place.

1. Galapagos Giant Tortoise

The Galapagos giant tortoises are one of the most important endemic species of the islands, as well as one of the largest species of tortoises that still inhabit this planet.

Places where it can be observed: The most important populations are found on the islands of Santa Cruz and Isabela, but they can also be seen on Española, Pinzón, Santiago, or San Cristóbal.

Most recommended time to see them: In the warm season, early in the morning or late afternoon, and during the cool season they are most active at noon.

How know if a tortoise is male or female? Read more here.

2. Galapagos Iguanas

2.1 Galapagos Marine Iguana

The Galapagos marine iguana is the only reptile of the world with the capacity to live in the sea. Besides, it is one of the most emblematic endemic species of the islands.

Places where it can be observed: Mainly in the coastal region of Española, Fernandina, Floreana, Isabela, Santa Cruz, and islets around the archipelago.

Best time to see them: All year round, spend most of the time sunbathing on the lava rocks.

2.2 GALAPAGOS LAND IGUANA

In the Galapagos Islands, there are three species of endemic land iguanas. The land iguanas are unique in the world, and they only inhabit this part of the planet.

Places where it can be observed: With more certainty, you can watch land iguanas in the next islands: Baltra, Fernandina, Isabela, North Seymour, Santa Cruz, and South Plaza.

Most recommended season to see them: It can be seen Galapagos land iguanas all year-round. 

3. Galapagos Sea Lions

3.1 The Galapagos sea lion (Zalophus Wollebaeki) only inhabits the Galapagos Islands and eventually the islands of Malpelo and Gorgona. It is usually seen sleeping on the beaches.

Places where it can be observed: On all the islands, along the coastline.

The most recommended time to see them: It can be seen Galapagos sea lions all year-round.

3.2 The Galapagos fur seal (Arctocephalus Galapagoensis) is a much more timid creature than its close relatives the sea lions (Zalophus Wollebaeki). Besides, their fur is much thicker.

Places where it can be observed: They can be found on all the islands, but they are more likely to be found in Darwin Bay, Genovesa, James Bay, or Santiago.

The most recommended time to see them: It can be seen Galapagos fur seals all year-round, but, you can be seen the puppies in October.

4. GALAPAGOS PENGUIN

The Galapagos penguin is the only one that lives in the equatorial zone, also it is considered one of the smallest in the world.

Places where it can be seen: It is often found in Fernandina or Isabela, but it can also be seen in Bartolomé, Floreana, or Santiago.

Most recommended season to see them: It can be seen throughout the year.

Would you like to know more about the Galapagos Penguin? Read more here.

5. Blue-footed Booby

The Blue-footed Booby is very easy to identify with its bright blue legs that never go unnoticed.

Places where it can be seen: The main breeding site is in the North Seymour, but it can also be seen in Española, Fernandina, Floreana, Isabela, Pinzón, and Santa Cruz.

The most recommended time to see them: The best time is during their breeding season which occurs between June and August.

Would you like to know more facts about the Blue-footed Booby? Read more here.

In conclusion, if your main motivation for visiting the Galapagos Islands is to observe unique animals in the world, you will not be disappointed. Our top 5 iconic animals of the Galapagos Islands will be waiting for you.

Take consideration that some of the species that we have mentioned above inhabit uninhabited islands that are very far away. Therefore, they can only be accessed by cruise.

But, don’t worry, there have great cruise offers to visit the most important islands, so pack your bags and get ready for the best adventure of your life.

If you want to know more about Galapagos animals, take a look at our article on the endemic species of the islands. Read more here.

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