wait, there are people in galápagos?

A mural in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz depicting the history of the islands


Puerto Villamil, Isabela


Puerto Villamil, Isabela


Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal


Malecón in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz

When I tell stories about my trip, most people are surprised to find out that people live on the Galápagos Islands. I share these photographs to show the three towns we stayed in; all with populations, hotels, restaurants and modern amenities.

Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz is the largest of the three towns. It's home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, where Lonesome George lives. Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the island of San Cristóbal is the island's second largest city. It's the capital city and home to the university and a fantastic interpretation center. Puerto Villamil on the island of Isabela is a smaller, sleepier town on the archipelgo's largest island. The streets are sand and the people are beautiful. If you go to Bar de Beto (arguably the island's best bar) you might even get some chewed gum in your popcorn. Yum!

The islands' population is estimated to be between 30,000 and 40,000. Last year, more than 100,000 tourists visited the Galápagos. This is a major concern to the islands that are 97 percent National Park. Restrictions have been placed on both tourism and immigration. UNESCO also added the Galápagos to the World Heritage Site “in danger” list under the recommendation of the World Conservation Union. If you want to read more, check this out.