6 Best spots for snorkeling in the Galapagos

August 8th, 2022 – Axel Baquerizo

The Galapagos Islands are perfect for underwater wildlife enthusiasts. The good news is that you don’t need to be a diver to enjoy most of the action, because our snorkel addicts tours will take you to the most amazing spots on the Islands! 

Galapagos Snorkeling puts you right in the middle of the action, up close to everything. Snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands is full of surprises. Snorkel among beautiful volcanic calderas and clear seas, with lively sea lions, relaxed turtles, benign sharks, and penguins! So get your snorkel, mask, and fins ready.

Snorkel in our land-based tours:

Kicker Rock (San Cristobal), also known as Leon Dormido (Sleeping Lion), is one of the Galapagos’ most famous snorkeling spots. Galapagos Sharks, White-tipped Reef Sharks, Rays, Reef Fish, Sea Turtles, and Sea Lions thrive in the channel between the Tuff Cone rocks. The currents might be rough, but the fauna is unparalleled.

Los Tuneles (Isabela) is the best spot in the Galapagos Islands to see Sea Horses, as well as Reef Sharks, Sealions, Turtles, and the rare Penguin. The seas are generally quiet and sheltered here, and many of our clients have mentioned Los Tuneles as one of the highlights of their entire vacation.

Las Grietas Galápagos is in the greatest swimming area on Santa Cruz Island, near the hamlet of Puerto Ayora, where you can find three crystal blue ponds that are nestled in a fissure between steep volcanic cliffs in a gorgeous environment. Locals and tourists visit Las Grietas to cool down while admiring the magnificent views.

Snorkel in our Cruise tours:

Due to its large population of marine iguanas, Punta Espinosa (Fernandina) is the ideal Galapagos destination for snorkeling. Other features include flightless cormorants, sea turtles, and the rare penguin.

Moray eels, Golden and Eagle Rays, Scorpionfish, Wrasse, Snappers, and Groupers live in and around the walls of an eroded sea crater at Devil’s Crown (Floreana), another world-famous Galapagos snorkeling location. Beware of the current here; it’s not for the faint of heart, but the rewards await intrepid snorkelers!

Chinese Hat (Santiago), also known locally as Sombrero Chino, is a sheltered cove where lively infant sea lions and Galapagos penguins occasionally search for schools of fish. In the depths, white-tipped reef sharks lurk, and Green Sea Turtles graze on algae.

Enjoying responsibility:

While the marine life in the Galapagos is spectacular, the aquatic conditions are rather safe for humans. The water is relatively warm, but if you plan on being in the water for more than 20 minutes, a brief wetsuit is recommended (these are provided on cruises). If necessary, flotation gear can be provided. Keep in mind that the majority of marine life dwells in locations with no strong currents or undertows.

While certain snorkeling sites can be hard, the guides are extremely knowledgeable about their surroundings and are continuously on the lookout for your safety. Most importantly, the majority of the best snorkeling spots in the Galapagos are relatively shallow, which means you can swim out from the beach and then simply swim down the shoreline to the vibrant reefs. The water depth not only makes it safe for beginner snorkelers but also keeps you close to some of the most evocative marine creatures.

 

Best time to dive

You can’t go wrong visiting the Galapagos Islands at any time of year!

The “Hot Season” lasts from December through May. Showers come and go on a daily basis, with the sun breaking through to provide some of the warmest days of the year. The temperature ranges from 65 to 85 degrees.

During the rainy season, the water is warmer, calmer, and clearer, making it ideal for snorkeling in the Galapagos.

From June until November is the dry season. While there is little rain, the skies are slightly gloomy, and temperatures range from 60 to 80 degrees.

Remember, if you want to live unforgettable experiences, contact Smart Galapagos EU, and book your tour!

IT IS ALWAYS A GOOD TIME TO GO TO THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS!

Be Smart! Let’s start your journey with us!