Part of what makes visiting foreign destinations exciting and interesting is seeing how “daily life” is in other countries. One way in which daily life is portrayed around the world is via street art, murals and even graffitti.

The type of street art you see around Ecuador is different than what you’ll see in a country in Europe, or North America. When it comes to the Galapagos Islands, the type of street art you see here reflects the daily life experiences, wildlife and culture of the islands.

Pretty cool mural in Puerto Ayora.

Often it is large murals you’ll find around town, depicting the islands or it’s animals. Quite often these pieces of public artwork are done to educate the children who live here, not just the visitors. Understanding how sensitive and important the Galapagos Islands are at a young age ensures that the Galapagos will continue to thrive, and even improve generation after generation.

Other times you’ll come across street art that is purely for entertainment. Portraying the island paradise, or “good life” of the Galapagos. Something like, say…a sea lion drinking a martini, while lounging in a hammock.

A true-to-life piece of art on Isabela Island.

There is a source of pride to a lot of the street art in the Galapagos as well. Take the Popeye mural below. It was not done by accident. It used to be prominently on display along the waterfront in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, near the navy facilities. (It is no longer there – another aspect of street art is that it is always changing.)

Popeye! Used to be in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

It is a great insight into what locals are thinking when they’re tasked with turning the Galapagos into art, or take it upon themselves to create something unique. Take a walk Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island or Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and see what street art you can find!

Painted Boat street art on San Cristobal Island

Street Art Installation – Sign in San Cristobal

Ok, technically this is inside the Charles Darwin Center, but it’s a cool photo collage art piece!