This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Puerto Ayora.
Puerto Ayora is the largest town in the Galapagos, Ecuador, and despite being part of these famously remote islands, is a busy destination on the south coast that has much for its visitors to explore. Most of the Galapagos’ industry, such as its banks, schools, shops, hostels and resorts, can be found in Puerto Ayora, making it a top destination for anyone wanting to experience the most of the region.
The best time to visit the town is between December and May, as this is when it is warmest. Many hostels across Puerto Ayora are affordable and provide dormitory style accommodation that feel as luxurious as a hotel. Hostels here are never too far from the sea, and welcome tourists gladly. Staying in a hostel in this town will give you the opportunity to meet and experience a community of people that thrives on helping out and giving back.
This is because Puerto Ayora is the epicentre of conservation and protected nature locations. Not only is it home to the Charles Darwin Foundation, the Galapagos National Park can also be found in the town. In Academy Bay you may spot sea lions, iguanas, sting-rays and pelicans, especially if you take advantage of the easily accessible harbour there.
Taking advantage of a well priced hostel in Puerto Ayora is great if you wish to visit Tortuga Bay, as it is only a short walk away. The white sandy beaches of this Bay are like the beaches of paradise. Here there are also many fantastic natural sights to see, including the huge Galapagos tortoise, Galapagos crabs, and maybe even a reef shark or two.
Puerto Ayora is a destination for travellers interested the natural life of the Galapagos islands, who can appreciate the history of the islands and understand the importance of protecting the wildlife you will find there. For a hostel goer, this is a town with meaning that makes an impact on its natural surroundings.
Written by local enthusiast for Puerto Ayora hostels
Jakob Lombardi
