Travel to Ecuador: Galapagos Islands Tours

Why travel to the Galapagos

The volcanic Galapagos Islands sit about 650 miles west of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. At first, they appear to be desolate. Yet, these rough and rocky isles are home to wonderfully strange and abundant wildlife. As did Charles Darwin some 200 years before us, you will marvel at the highly adapted creatures found nowhere else on earth on your Galapagos vacation.

Only in this truly magical setting can you see Giant Galapagos tortoises meandering across distant highlands, prehistoric marine iguanas sunning themselves on black lava rocks along the shore, and tiny penguins darting through the waters while graceful red-billed tropicbirds screech across the sky.

The Galapagos consist of 6 main islands (San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Isabela, Floreana, Fernandina, and Santiago), 12 smaller islands, and over 40 islets. Only a few of the islands are inhabited and the entire archipelago has a total population of about 28,000.

The main attraction of these enchanted islands is, of course, the numerous and essentially fearless wildlife and birdlife that call the Galapagos home. The islands were uninhabited when they were discovered in 1535 and the animals still have little instinctive fear of man. Here, travelers are able to live side-by-side with sea-lions, giant tortoises, and marine iguanas which will either demonstrate curiosity at their visiting friends or downright indifference.

These practically virginal islands have seen little human presence throughout their existence and as a result its inhabitants feel no real threat from their would-be predators. This facility to co-exist effortlessly with the interesting and unique creatures of these isles is sure to make your Galapagos vacation an unforgettable one.

What to do in the Galapagos

There are various ways to discover the Galapagos Islands and their unique wildlife, depending on your preferences. You can either go on a cruise that will take you around the archipelago with various stops, or go on an island hopping land tour and stay in Galapagos lodges at night.

For outdoor sporting addicts, there is no better place than the Galapagos Islands. Among the myriad activities available on your Galapagos vacation are diving, biking, hiking, trekking, kayaking, snorkeling, and many more, all of which will offer you a different and exciting insight into the Galapagos’ striking landscapes and fearless wildlife. Hiking across the volcanic landscapes or descending to the ocean depths is truly an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Each island possesses its own unique eco-system and characteristics. Here is a brief overview of the most famous islands and their main attractions:

Santa Cruz Island: This is the most central island, where the fascinating Charles Darwin Research Station, a must-see on any Galapagos tour, is located. The station helps travelers learn all they need to know about the islands and their inhabitants. Take a stroll on the beautiful Tortuga Bay beaches and walk inside natural lava tubes.

San Cristobal: Home to the capital of the Galapagos, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal has many beautiful beaches. Don’t miss La Loberia, a rocky bay with shore birds, sea lions, and marine iguanas.

Isabela: The largest island of the archipelago, Isabela was formed by lava flows from six volcanoes, five of which are still active. This is a perfect place for those looking for tranquility and relaxation. Don’t forget to visit the Sierra Negra Volcano, which has the largest basaltic crater in the world.

Floreana: This island has the richest human history, filled with mysteries and legends of the first settlers and pirates. Floreana also has great snorkeling sites such as the Devil’s Crown and stunning beaches like Black Beach.

When to visit the Galapagos

The Galapagos climate can be divided into a hot season from December to May, when there is a possibility of heavy showers, and a cool season from June to November when the days are generally cloudy and there is often rain or drizzle. Despite variations in the temperatures and water visibility, conditions are generally favorable for visiting the Galapagos Islands throughout the year.

The peak tourist period is mainly from June to August. However, a lot of people also visit the islands around the Easter season and between the months of December and January. If you wish to visit the islands during the low season, try coming between the months of June and November, which is garua season.

Travel Testimonials

Starting in the Galapagos was great and really got us relaxed and settled in. The wildlife is spectacular. The Odyssey was quite the ship and the service impeccable. Our guide Tatiana was extremely knowledgeable and fun to be with. Every day we looked forward to a new adventure.

Phil & Kate Barker (California, USA) traveled to the Galapagos in April 2011

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We had a fabulous trip to Ecuador and Peru. The Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu were definitely the highlights. Amazing!!! Thanks for coordinating the trip. We were met every time when we were supposed to and all of our tours went according to plan.

Joan Stearns (Virginia, USA) traveled to the Galapagos in August 2010

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We traveled with the hopes of seeing lots of different species and boy did we. We took over 3,000 pictures and enjoyed every moment of our trip. The highlight of our trip was definitely the Galapagos. We loved all the snorkeling and hiking.

Nicole, Christian & Sarah Goers (USA) traveled to the Galapagos in November 2010

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Galapagos Boats

Grand Odyssey

The Galapagos Grand Odyssey is a brand new luxury yacht, offering the highest level of comfort of any boat its size in the Galapagos Islands. Its features resemble but also surpass those of the already highly praised Odyssey I. Among the amazing features of this boat are a sundeck where guests can enjoy the spectacular views, a Jacuzzi, a restaurant and bar, gym, and mini-spa.

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Galapagos Journey I

The Galapagos Journey I is a luxury power catamaran offering high quality and comfortable cruises in the Galapagos Islands since 2006. The boat comprises 6 twin bed cabins and 2 suites equipped and decorated with the highest standards in mind. The M/C Galapagos Journey I is a very spacious yacht with larger-than-average inside and outside social areas. The Catamaran has lots of open deck space allowing guests to make the most of the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands. It is also offers a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, sea kayaking, and excursions with a naturalist multilingual guide.

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Galapagos Hotels

Finch Bay Hotel 5*

Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz

This beachfront 5-star Galapagos hotel is one of the most luxurious in Puerto Ayora on lovely Santa Cruz Island. Conveniently located close to the city's main shopping area, the Darwin Research Station, and one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos, the hotel's deluxe services are a great complement to your Galapagos adventures. The hotel comprises 21 rooms with garden views and 6 brand new rooms with ocean views. All guestrooms are cozy and inviting, decorated in a contemporary fashion with bright colors and white walls. Simple, elegant, and comfortable are the best words to characterize this stunning hotel. Take a swim in the pool, sip a cocktail at the bar, enjoy a nap in one of the hammocks, or taste the delicious flavors of the Ecuadorian cuisine in the restaurant.

Restaurant Internet Swimming Pool

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Sol y Mar Hotel 4*

Avenida Charles Darwin y Thomas de Berlanga, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz

This excellent Galapagos hotel features modern amenities to ensure that your stay in the Galapagos is a truly unforgettable experience. From the swim-up pool bar to the Jacuzzi, restaurant, and 17 stylish oceanfront rooms, Sol y Mar aspires to provide the utmost comfort and the best services on Santa Cruz Island. Enjoy a cocktail on the hotel's terrace or take a dip in the pool located directly on the seafront where sea lions frequently sunbathe with guests. Originally built in the 1960s to provide visiting scientists with lovely accommodation near the Charles Darwin Research Station, Sol Y Mar has continued its legacy as a homey, but elegant hotel while continuing to update its services. The spacious and bright rooms are all immaculate and equipped with latest amenities to make your stay as comfortable as it can be. Don't miss the delicious fresh seafood dishes from the chef's menu, served in the restaurant, in your room, or on the hotel's charming patio.

Restaurant Internet Room Service Swimming Pool Laundry Service

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Casa Opuntia 3*

San Cristobal

Casa Opuntia is, without a doubt, one of the finest accommodations in San Cristobal Island. Overlooking the seaside's recently rebuilt promenade and a mere two-minute walk from the beautiful Playa de Oro, this excellent Galapagos hotel is equipped with many great amenities to make your stay in the Galapagos a one-of-a-kind experience. Among the features of Casa Opuntia are a large swimming pool, an excellent restaurant that serves delicious seafood dishes amidst stunning ocean views, and a bar where guests can enjoy a cocktail after a long day of sightseeing. The 10 modern and comfortable rooms are decorated in a simple, but tasteful manner. Some of the rooms boast balconies where guests can gaze across the picturesque beach and out to the horizon.

Restaurant Internet Laundry Service Swimming Pool

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