The Galapagos Islands offer a unique and diverse ecosystem, with endemic species not found anywhere else in the world. Visitors can witness natural selection and evolution while enjoying various outdoor activities such as snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking. The islands also provide an opportunity to learn about ongoing conservation efforts and the importance of protecting our planet. The islands are costly. Every visitor must pay an entrance fee to support the conservation and protection of the island's unique ecosystem. The fee includes a Transit Control Card to regulate the number of visitors entering and leaving the islands. The funds are used to manage and protect the park, support conservation and research, and ensure the preservation of the natural environment.

Here's how to spend and minimize cost in a 1-week stay in the islands. Accommodation is based in Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz and Puerto Villamil in Isabela.

Day 1: Arrival 

• Arrive at Baltra Airport and take the public bus to the Itabaca Channel, where you can take a ferry to Santa Cruz Island.

• Check your budget accommodation in Puerto Ayora; it depends on your arrival timing; you can explore the town on foot.

• Visit the accessible Charles Darwin Research Station and learn about the ongoing conservation efforts on the islands.

• Head down to fishing piers and witness seals, frigatebirds, and pelicans taking a turn to steal fish carcasses from the fisherman.

Day 2: Santa Cruz Highlands and Tortuga Bay 

• Take a bus or taxi to the highlands, explore the lava tunnels, visit a giant tortoise breeding center, and enjoy the lush scenery.

• In the afternoon, walk to Tortuga Bay, a free white sand beach with excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities. Beware, there's no lifeguard here; iguanas, pelicans, and turtles swim along with you but won’t save you. Don’t forget to bring snacks, food, sunscreen, and water with you.

• In the evening, explore the local street food scene in Los Kioskos - a street close to vehicles at night but open to stalls and tables. When in Galapagos, avoid ordering meat. Eat seafood - abundant and fresh!

Day 3: Bartolomé Island Day Trip

• Join a day trip to Bartolomé Island, famous for its volcanic landscapes and breathtaking views.

• Hike to the top of Bartolome Island. The hike takes about an hour, and it's a bit steep, but the view from the top is spectacular. You can see Pinnacle Rock, Sullivan Bay, and the other islands in the distance.

• See the Galapagos penguins: Bartolome Island is one of the few places where you can see Galapagos penguins. These adorable birds are the only penguins that live on the equator, and they're a must-see for any nature lover.

Day 4: Transfer to Isabela Island

• Take a ferry to Isabela Island and settle into your accommodation in Puerto Villamil.

• Explore the town. You can walk around the town and see the colorful buildings, visit the local market, and enjoy local food.

• Visit the Flamingo Lagoon, and the Wall of Tears, a historical monument built by prisoners during WWII.

Day 5: Sierra Negra Volcano and Tintoreras

• Take a guided tour of the Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos.

• In the afternoon, visit Tintoreras, a small island near Isabela, to observe white-tipped sharks and other marine life.

Day 6: Free day in Isabela

• Rent a bike or walk to explore the beaches and enjoy the island's laid-back vibe.

• Snorkel at Concha de Perla: Concha de Perla is a beautiful natural swimming hole perfect for snorkeling. You can rent snorkeling gear for a small fee and see various marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish.

Day 7: Return to Santa Cruz and Departure

• Take the ferry back to Santa Cruz and do some last-minute souvenir shopping or take a swim at Las Grietas before departing.

This itinerary is just a suggestion; you can mix and match activities to suit your interests and budget. Remember always to follow the Galapagos National Park rules and regulations to help protect the island's fragile ecosystem.

In conclusion, the Galapagos Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the natural wonder and gain a deeper understanding of our planet's importance.