It is true that the Galapagos Islands are a paradise – however, they are a paradise like no other. A tour of the amazing Galapagos Islands is certain to change your view of the natural world and what “paradise” really means.
The rocky landscapes of these volcanic islands out in the vast Pacific Ocean are at times quite surreal. The plants and wildlife you see on a Galapagos tour are as unique as they are spectacular. Visitors are constantly left in awe of the islands’ treasures.
Explore the Highly Protected Natural Landscapes of the Islands
There is a vibrant but controlled tourist industry on the Galapagos Islands. You can be sure that while your Galapagos Islands tour will be filled with many of the wonders that still amaze scientists today, the fragile ecosystem will be vigorously protected. This is done to ensure that the legacy of the Galapagos can endure.
Galapagos Islands Cruises
The Galapagos Islands themselves can be quite rugged but your trip there doesn’t need to be! Galapagos travel often includes luxurious Galapagos Island cruises aboard world-class deluxe yachts with all the comforts you need. Imagine enjoying cocktails on board with the crew as the stars twinkle in an awesomely clear night sky.
Choose from a variety of Galapagos cruises and your tour package will include staying in your own private room with private bathroom. The cruises bundle in tasty daily meals plus arrange for guided tours to the sites on your itinerary. Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off are also normal features of Galapagos vacation packages.
Galapagos Islands Travel Guide
A look at a Galapagos Islands map reveals that the archipelago is actually made up of 13 large islands and 6 small isles. Nature watching in the Galapagos is as much about what can be seen on the land as it is about what lies in the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean. Many tourists come to Galapagos to go snorkeling and scuba diving as a way to encounter the islands’ colorful marine wildlife. Here are just a few of the amazing islands you'll encounter on your Galapagos tour.
Santa Cruz Island
This is the main island with the highest concentration of the population. On Santa Cruz, you can visit the Charles Darwin Station which has a fascinating turtle breeding area. The station also provides a wealth of information on Galapagos Island ecology and efforts to preserve it.
Also in Santa Cruz, is world renowned Tortuga Bay where you will find one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Visitors are often treated to sightings of white tip sharks, turtles, Blue Heron and pelicans.
Many tourists visit the other islands on day trips from Santa Cruz Island.
Baltra
Home to both a military base and an airport where Darwin finches, lava lizards and land iguanas are commonly seen. While on Baltra, one must-see location is Las Bachas Beach. Relax on the white sandy beaches and keep an eye out for migratory birds such as pink flamingos or get an up close look at a turtle nesting area.
Bartolome
Genovesa Island
This is a definite stop on every Galapagos Island tour itinerary. Genovesa has the largest red-footed boobie bird colony of all the islands. There is also a wide array of Darwin finches, as well as great frigate birds, short-eared owls and swallow-tailed gulls.
This island is a nature photographer’s dream come true! The stark and breathtaking volcanic landscape features shades of green, black and red that seem to shimmer in the light.
Walk along an enchanting crescent-shaped beach that is bathed in hues of pink and white sand. Hike up to Bartolome’s summit for panoramic views of the island and its surrounding waters. Wildlife here includes Galapagos penguins, sea turtles and sea lions. Plus, the island is a fantastic and favorite snorkeling spot to view a wide variety of fish and other marine life.
