Explore an Untouched Paradise: The Galapagos Islands
Bartolomé
Isabela
Fernandina
Santiago
Floreana
Española
Genovesa
Santa Cruz
Seymour Norte
San Cristóbal
Bartolomé Isabela Fernandina Santiago Floreana Española Genovesa Santa Cruz Seymour Norte San Cristóbal
Are you a highly experienced traveller who loves to learn and have an adventurous spirit?
Traveller who seeks life-enriching experiences, not a typical cruise, and want unique, remote destinations that can often only be reached by a small ship?
Do you have that have a “bucket list” of must-see and must-do travel destinations?
Do you seek unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations such as Antarctica, The Kimberley, and the Galápagos Islands?
Are you environmentally conscious and support conservation?
Photography fan and/or wildlife enthusiast?
If you respond YES, to more that 3 of these questions, this article is for you.
The Galapagos Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ecuador, is one of the most unique and diverse destinations on the planet. It has been home to a variety of wildlife, including giant tortoises, iguanas, sea lions, and hundreds of species of birds for centuries.
However, since 1800’s human activities have caused environmental issues to arise such as El Niño (ENSO), commercial fishing activities or introduction of new species which caused imbalances in their ecosystems.
Organizations have come together to conserve this destination by implementing sustainable tourism practices that generate economic resources while taking care of its natural environments. With proper management practices this area has become an example for other destinations around the world on how conservation efforts can be successful if everyone works together towards achieving common goals.
The Galapagos Islands are a true paradise for experienced travelers looking for adventure and relaxation at the same time. Not only will you get to indulge in outdoor activities such as snorkeling with sea lions or exploring secluded beaches during a trip here - but you will also be helping out with conservation projects by supporting local businesses that practice sustainable tourism practices like limiting visitor numbers, setting up waste management systems and utilizing renewable energy sources whenever possible. So why not go explore an untouched paradise – The Galapagos Islands!
•The Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, just 975 kilometres (600 miles) off the coast of Ecuador.
• The islands are home to a diversity of plant and animal species unique to the region, including the Galápagos Penguin, marine iguanas, and Darwin’s finches.
• One of the most pristine islands in the world, Fernandina hosts an impressive array of wildlife including sea lions, colourful Sally Lightfoot crabs and the rare Flightless Cormorant.
Experience Wildlife Tours with Local Experts
One way visitors can contribute to conservation efforts while exploring the islands is through guided tours with local experts who are passionate about protecting this destination. Experienced travelers can take part in outdoor activities such as snorkeling with sea lions or exploring secluded beaches while learning about fascinating wildlife from knowledgeable guides. For those interested in contributing further to conservation projects, there are volunteer opportunities available where you may help out with research or educational initiatives
Sustainable Tourism Practices
The Galapagos Islands are also committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices that take into account environmental protection and economic development. This includes limiting visitor numbers, setting up waste management systems that reduce plastic pollution and encouraging businesses to use renewable energy sources whenever possible. These initiatives have proven successful in preserving this beautiful destination and raising awareness about the importance of responsible travel throughout the worl.
Darwin's Voyage to the Galapagos
When Darwin set off from England in 1831, he could never have guessed that the Galapagos Islands would be the destination that changed his life and scientific reasoning forever. Darwin's visit to these islands left a resounding impact on not only the development of his Theory of Natural Selection, but also on all biological sciences through its radical ideas about the origin of species. On The Origin of Species, Darwin's revolutionary book published in 1859, outlines Darwin's understanding of the creatures found on the islands which were similar from island to island despite their environmental adaptations--an idea that led to Darwin questioning the origin of species. Darwin's trip to the Galapagos Islands may be our first association with this unique place today; however it should also remind readers of Darwin’s revolutionary theories.
With its rugged moonscape atop an extinct volcano, Bartolome Island is a truly amazing place to visit. Its main attraction, Pinnacle Rock, gives visitors a bird's eye view of the incredible geologic landscape that exemplifies this part of the Galápagos archipelago.
Underwater adventures await as well, with many snorkelling and diving opportunities full of colourful coral reefs and secretive sea creatures such as sea turtles, eagle rays, and Galápagos penguins – one of the island’s most beloved inhabitants!
Isabela ´s Island
Isabela is an enchanting place for exploration of the wild and rugged natural beauty of the Galapagos. Be sure to take in the stunning view from Punta Vicente Roca, as it provides extraordinary snorkelling experiences through its crystal clear waters and underwater volcanic vents. Here visitors can marvel at a spectrum of aquatic life, including schools of colourful fish that swim amongst giant tortoises, rays and sea lions. The panoramic sights provided will be sure to make your stay on Isabela an unforgettable one!
San Cristóbal
Punta Pitt in San Cristóbal features a rare olivine beach with sea lions dozing on the green sands. Guests can climb up the cliffs of a ravine and admire one of the most magnificent panoramas in the archipelago. San Cristobal is full of colourful bird species such as the Red-footed and Blue-footed Boobies, in addition to the ruby-throated frigate birds.
North Seymour
Though North Seymour is only 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) in length, this island boasts a spectacular profusion of wildlife in and out of the sea. The Magnificent Frigate bird is an opportunistic breeder which means courting males can be seen displaying their bright-red gular sac at any time of the year. Marine iguanas and Galápagos land iguanas patrol the beach, while Galápagos sea lions snooze in the sand and Brown Noddy Terns scan the shallows for food.
When to Travel
Since the islands virtually straddle the equator, the Galápagos is a fascinating destination, no matter when guests plan to go. The ideal time to visit depends on what guests would like to see and do. The archipelago experiences only two seasons. The seasons are divided into cool and dry (June – November) and hot and rainy (December – June). While the warmer season offers calmer seas with good underwater visibility, in the cooler season guests can witness native wildlife mating as well as sea turtle egg hatching. The islands are inhabited by few migratory species, therefore, most animals can be seen year-round.
THE HOT AND RAINY SEASON — JANUARY THROUGH JUNE
January through June is the sunniest time of the year with short periods of daily rainfall. The warmer water temperatures offer perfect conditions for snorkelers and swimmers. This is also the breeding season for land birds, which increases chances for guests to witness some unusual mating rituals. Guests may also find Galápagos green turtles nesting on the beach.
THE COOL AND DRY SEASON — JULY THROUGH DECEMBER
From July to December, the Humboldt Current brings colder water and weather to the islands. The current also enriches the sea with nutrients and plankton which attracts birds and fish such as the albatross. These months are the mating season for Blue-footed Boobies and Short-eared Owls. Guests can witness their dramatic courtships on Genovese Island. In December, the hatching season begins for giant tortoises.
If you are an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, highly experienced traveller and you would like to immerse yourself in the beauty of unspoiled landscapes such as the Galápagos Islands, I have a plan for you: Expedition Ships that are designed for guests who want to discover the world while travelling in comfort and elegance.
