Baños

Galápagos

Quito

Montañita

Nueva Loja

Ibarra

Otavalo

Atacames

Mompiche

Misahualli

Tena

Latacunga

Ambato

Riobamba

Mindo

Santo Domingo

Located over 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, Galápagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago teeming with unique and diverse wildlife. Known as one of the world's foremost destinations for wildlife-viewing, attractive species like giant Galápagos tortoises, marine iguanas, and flocks of Darwin finches can be spotted throughout the region's islets and islands. The Galápagos is renowned for its numerous endemic species studied by Charles Darwin, thus contributing to the inception of his theory of evolution by means of natural selection. Whether you're hiking active volcanoes, snorkeling with playful sea lions, or exploring the virtually untouched plant and animal habitats, the Galápagos Islands provide a thrilling showcase of evolutionary wonders within a fascinating landscape.

Situated on the equator on South America's west coast, Ecuador is a paradise with exceptional biodiversity known for its untouched beauty, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cultures. It is best recognized for two iconic locations. Firstly, the Galapagos Islands, a unique fauna haven thriving with wildlife unseen anywhere else in the world. Secondly, the Amazon Rainforest, bursting with diverse species and an array of adventures. From climbing high altitude peaks across the Andean mountain range, exploring colonial architecture in Quito, relishing fresh seafood at coastal towns, to wandering through indigenous markets in Otavalo, Ecuador beautifully blends nature with culture, making it an inspiring travel destination.

Ecuador

When traveling to Ecuador, it is important to exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of civil unrest, crime, and kidnapping as advised by the United States, Canadian and Australian governments. Some areas may have a higher risk than others. Unpredictable violent crime can happen, so it is recommended to stay vigilant, especially in unfamiliar locations. Avoid desolated areas and keep a low profile to prevent potential threats. Stay informed about potential security threats through local news and always have a contingency plan.

The Galápagos Islands are truly extraordinary. Booking activities on site is much cheaper (don’t be shy to bargain) and offers more flexibility. The diversity of wildlife is exceptional. Island hopping is not the most comfortable (if you get nauseous plan to grab some medicine). Once on an island everything is conveniently close. We often walked everywhere even to an airport on one of the islands. For distant activities, agencies provided pick up services. The food was fresh and delicious. Don’t forget to get a stamp in your passport!

It was over-regulated and full of tourists. It was not the nature-based expedition I was hoping for. Free diving and snorkelling there were great. It was nice to see giant turtles, but apart from that, there is not much to do there. I visited a few islands, but they did not have wildlife and were also over-regulated. Overall, I was disappointed.

Safety index:	2.7/5	Moderate
Safety walking alone after dark:	N/A	Not enough data
Safety using public transport:	N/A	Not enough data
Crime index:	1/5	Very Low
Worries of being sexually harassed:	N/A	Not enough data
Worries of being sexually assaulted or raped:	N/A	Not enough data
Worries of being physically attacked:	N/A	Not enough data
Worries of home broken and things stolen:	N/A	Not enough data
Worries of being mugged or robbed:	N/A	Not enough data
Worries of being kidnapped or murdered:	N/A	Not enough data

Is Galápagos Safe for Women? Crime in Galápagos

Safety index

Crime index

Violence index

Crime & Safety Statistics

Safety index:

Safety walking alone after dark:

Safety using public transport:

Crime index:

Worries of being sexually harassed:

Worries of being sexually assaulted or raped:

Worries of being physically attacked:

Worries of home broken and things stolen:

Worries of being mugged or robbed:

Worries of being kidnapped or murdered:

Stay with locals for free

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies and stay with locals for free through hospitality exchange.

How safe is Galápagos for women?

Is Galápagos worth visiting?

Overall rating

Couple travel

Group travel

Crime in Ecuador