Galapagos Islands Pictures

Galapagos sea lions love lounging on San Cristóbal and Rábida islands' beaches. prasit chansarekorn Getty Images

Puerto Villamil's proximity to the wildlife-filled Tintoreras and the historic Wall of Tears makes this quiet town a convenient departure point for sightseeing. Jesse Kraft / EyeEm Getty Images

The Galápagos Islands are home to 24 of the world's bird species, but one of the most unique birds you'll see while bird-watching here is the aptly named blue-footed booby. Photography by Jessie Reeder Getty Images

You may recognize this colorful landscape from the movie "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World," but Bartolomé Island is also a haven for Galapagos penguins and green sea turtles. Jesse Kraft / EyeEm Getty Images

For a glimpse of the region's giant tortoises without rubbing elbows with hordes of tourists, check out Rancho Primicias. Westend61 Getty Images

One of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno's most popular activities is to travel by boat to the nearby Kicker Rock. Tilmonster Getty Images

These small Galápagos penguins are the only species of penguin found north of the equator. jmmf Getty Images

On La Loberia's sands, it isn't uncommon to spot multiple sea lions sleeping or sunbathing. Volanthevist Getty Images

Santa Cruz Island's most populous town is Puerto Ayora, where various restaurants, shops, hotels and nightclubs reside. Harri Jarvelainen Photography Getty Images

On Rábida Island, visitors will find a red sand beach frequented by brown pelicans, sea lions, marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies. Donyanedomam Getty Images

Although Tortuga Bay is named for the turtles that lay their eggs on its beach, the bay is best known for its resident marine iguanas. shalamov Getty Images

For a glimpse at the world's second largest crater, hike around Sierra Negra Volcano. DC_Colombia Getty Images

Ecuador's national dish – made with tuna, yucca, tomatoes, pickled onions and cilantro – is served at many restaurants in the Galápagos archipelago. Coen Priemis / EyeEm Getty Images

According to previous visitors, one of the Galápagos' best places to snorkel is Isabela Island's Los Tuneles. chemistkane Getty Images

At El Chato Tortoise Reserve, you'll get an up-close look at the islands' famous giant tortoises. Master1312 Getty Images

The Galápagos Islands are a great destination for snorkeling and diving. If you're an experienced diver, consider exploring Darwin Island's waters, where hammerhead sharks are regularly spotted. by wildestanimal Getty Images

These brightly colored crabs can be found on many of the Galápagos Islands' beaches. Juergen Ritterbach Getty Images

At the Charles Darwin Research Station, visitors can watch giant tortoises and learn more about the Galápagos Islands' unique wildlife. Les Williams Flickr