The Galapagos Islands
A trip to the Galapagos Islands is not just another "day at the beach" island vacation. This unique, "living museum" will transport you to another world, one teeming with wildlife found no where else on Earth. This UNESCO heritage site has fascinated people for decades ever since Charles Darwin's Galapagos-based research on the theory of Natural Selection put the region on the map. Located roughly 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast in the Pacific Ocean, this archipelago of 19 islands and many smaller islets offers visitors an adventure of a lifetime on both land and sea. Where else can you hike through lava fields surrounded by giant tortoises one day and scuba dive with whale sharks the next? Is it any wonder that the Galapagos Islands are on so many travelers' bucket lists?
By Land or By Sea?
Cruising on a small yacht or sailboat is the most popular way to travel around the Galapagos Islands (and the best way to see the more remote islands and wildlife) but it's not your only option. Staying at a resort on one of the inhabited islands offers more spacious accommodations as well as the option of day-long boat trips to several of the islands. The downside? You will lose valuable time in transit with day trips to the islands and you won't have time to visit the more remote spots. However, if you are not a fan of sleeping on a boat a land-based trip is your best bet.
What to Do:
The challenging terrain of the islands makes for a truly adventurous vacation. If you are looking to immerse themselves in the outdoors you will not be disappointed.
- Wildlife watching. Blue-footed boobies, albatross penguins, marine iguanas and giant tortoise are just a few of the species unique to the Galapagos. Cruises and resorts have trained naturalists to help you spot the wildlife. Don't forget your cameras!
• Diving. Live-aboard cruises will take experienced divers to the best dive spots on Wolf and Darwin Islands, where you might see hammerhead sharks and whale sharks. Daily dives are also available on land-based stays.
• Snorkeling. No matter which island you’re snorkeling off of, you’ll likely find sea lions and Pacific sea turtles swimming alongside you.
• Hiking. Trek over dried lava beds along the rim of one of the archipelago’s active volcanoes or into the highlands to see a variety of vegetation.
• Kayaking. Rent kayaks with or without a guide and paddle alongside penguins, sea lions, and sea turtles.
• Surfing. Rent boards in the port towns and hit the waves.
Don't Skip Quito
As you make your way to and from the Galapagos Islands, make sure to set aside a day or two to visit Quito and the surrounding areas. Explore Quito's "Old Town" (a World Heritage Site), check out the equator and the "Middle of the World Monument," climb an active volcano, hike in a cloud forest, or shop for leather goods and handmade embroidery. It's the perfect way to start - or end - your South American adventure.
Ready to plan your trip to the Galapagos Islands?
Let the experts at Houlahan Travel design the perfect itinerary for a truly unique vacation. Personal experience paired with a personal touch is what sets us apart. For an example of a personalized itinerary to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands see Houlahan travel expert, Nancy Hoying's itineraries here.