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The Galapagos Islands

5

Reasons to Visit the Galapagos Islands

  • Evolution

    Charles Darwin arrived in Galapagos in 1835. Here he found a remarkable population of plants, birds and reptiles that had developed in isolation from the mainland, but also differed on almost identical neighbouring islands. These characteristics he could only explain by a gradual transformation of the various species and lead to the publication of his famous “Origin of the Species”.

    Evolution
  • Fearless Wildlife

    Having no natural predators for centuries, the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands has become remarkably fearless. This has continued with the introduction of humans allowing visitors to come face to face with the animals. It's quite common for visitors to have to make way for a sealion moving along the beach or be forced away from the nesting site of a blue-footed booby!

    Fearless Wildlife
  • Lonesome George

    Galapagos’ most famous resident, Lonesome George is the last remaining sub-species of the Pinta Giant Tortoise - almost wiped to extinction by whalers in the 1900’s. Now currently residing in the Charles Darwin Research Station, researchers are trying to find a suitable mate and a sizeable reward is on offer for anyone who can do so.

    Lonesome George
  • Pinnacle Rock

    The Galapagos’ most iconic site, Pinnacle Rock is an eroded tuff cone protruding form the side of Bartolome Island. This lunar landscape, edged by a white sandy beach, is teaming with sealions and offers clear blue water and stunning a backdrop - one of the highlights of a trip to Galapagos.

    Pinnacle Rock
  • Volcanoes

    Galapagos is often referred to as the 'Land of Fire'. The western most islands are made up of active volcanoes and volatile activity is common place. When an eruption takes place, cruise vessels often divert their itinerary to enable passengers to get close to lava flows.

    Volcanoes
 
 

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The Galapagos Islands

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The Galapagos Islands Travel Specialists

Our Galapagos Islands specialists are experienced and passionate about the region - between them they have spent many weeks a year researching new experiences and ensuring everything is of the highest standard. They know these islands inside out.

Practical Information

In our experience, the Galapagos Islands are one of those destinations that surpass all expectations.

However, in order to make the absolute most of your trip we believe you need experts to advise on the right type of trip to take based on your requirements.

Arranging your trip with one of our specialists

We also believe that your trip should be planned by someone who has been to the destination in question, which is why all our Galapagos specialists have visited the islands and know them well.

Between them they have sailed on or inspected many of the different cruise vessels featured and are therefore well qualified to offer first hand advice and plan your trip.

They have also travelled extensively in mainland Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela, which are destinations you may wish to combine with your Galapagos trip.

Tipping

Tipping for good service is an accepted fact and the Galapagos Islands are no exception. The boats usually give guidelines to how much you should tip the guides and crew at the end of your cruise, but these are guidelines only, and on some boats in particular they may seem exceptionally high. We recommend that you tip simply what you want to, all amounts are confidential so there is no need to worry about being coerced into giving more than you wish.

Food and drink

Ecuadorian food is based around meat or fish, rice and plantain, and is generally cheap, tasty and plentiful. There are dozens of exotic fruits such as naranjilla, maracuya and guanabana that are made into delicious ice creams and juices. Food on board the boats is plentiful and varied, usually with a large buffet breakfast and lunch, and an evening meal with a choice of a couple of dishes, including a vegetarian option.

Under The Skin

Watch

'Galapagos'. A three-part documentary by the BBC. Stunning camera work and brilliantly narrated.

Eat

Fish - there's quite an abundance of it around Galapagos!

Drink

Captains cocktails.

Word

Panga (The inflatable boats that transport you during your Galapagos cruise).

Trademarks

Land of fire.

Shopping

Buy your "I love Boobies" t-shirt from the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. Although they are a little more expensive here, the money goes straight back into the Research Station.

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