Dolphin

Dolphins in the Galapagos

There can be few animals that inspire as much wonder and delight as dolphins. Known for their intelligence, playfulness, and social nature, these charismatic marine mammals are a joy to encounter in the wild.

Several species inhabit Galapagos waters.

Species Found in the Galapagos

The most commonly observed species is the Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), easily recognised by its short, rounded beak and tall, curved dorsal fin. They can travel in groups of 20–30 individuals and are often seen riding the bow waves of boats and yachts.

Smaller and more slender is the Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis), noted for its striking hourglass pattern along the flanks and agile swimming.

The Striped Dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba) is rarer, with a dark line running from its eye to its flipper, while the Risso’s Dolphin (Grampus griseus) is distinguished by its pale, scarred skin and rounded forehead.

Behaviour and Social Life

Dolphins are highly social animals that communicate through clicks, whistles, and body language. Bottlenose Dolphins are frequently seen leaping clear of the water, sometimes landing on their sides in noisy splashes, possibly to dislodge parasites or simply to play.

They may also be accompanied by suckerfish (remoras) attached to their flanks, a harmless association that benefits both species.

Pods sometimes mix with other dolphin species or even with pilot whales, creating lively, multi-species gatherings that showcase the rich biodiversity of Galapagos waters.

A Brief History

In centuries past, the abundance of dolphins and whales around the Galapagos drew early sailors and whalers to the region. Today, while commercial exploitation has long ceased, these waters remain a vital habitat for dolphins, particularly in the western islands where the nutrient-rich Humboldt and Cromwell Currents provide a steady food supply.

Where to See Them

On our Safaris, dolphins are sometimes spotted racing alongside the boat. On rare occasions, snorkelers may even share the water with them, a humbling experience that stays with you long after you’ve left the islands.

The best sightings tend to occur in the open channels between islands or near the coasts of Santa Cruz and Isabela, where deep ocean currents bring nutrient-rich waters to the surface.