Have you ever considered visiting the amazing ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands? Born from volcanoes, these islands are close to the equator and boast a warm climate all year long. There are 13 main islands in the archipelago, and three smaller islands, as well. Located about 500 miles to the west of Ecuador, the islands have a human population of about 30,000 and can be reached by air or sea. Here are some considerations to keep in mind if you plan to visit the Galapagos Islands:
- When to Go: The low tourist seasons to the Galapagos are April and May, and September and October. During April and May, the islands are at the end of their “warm season,” which begins in December. This means that the waters are warmer and the air feels more humid and tropical. From June to December, it is “dry season,” when the air is cooler and the skies are blue. Often, cruise fares are lower during the low tourist seasons, but not always.
- How to Get There: One popular itinerary is to leave Quito, Ecuador, by plane, and to travel to the island of Baltra. From here, you can take a ship from island to island. Some tour companies offer a cruise for those who would rather spend their nights on land instead of at sea. At the end of your tour, you can fly back to Quito and either spend some time exploring the city, or head back home. Cruise itineraries range from four to fifteen days, so you can choose what works best for you. You can also fly from Guayaquil instead, if you prefer.
- Things to Do: One of the main highlights of visiting the Galapagos Islands is experiencing relatively untouched nature. Some possibilities for outdoor adventures include watching the wildlife on the pristine beaches, going snorkeling in the warm waters of Darwin Bay, observing the huge Galapagos tortoises, walking among the black volcanic beaches of Santiago, hiking, birdwatching and surfing in the tropical waves. While in some of the cities, you’ll also have the opportunity to spend time shopping and talking to the people who call the Galapagos Islands home.
Visiting the archipelago of Galapagos Islands is, for most, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You’ll see species of animals that don’t live anywhere else on earth, and you’ll also become a part of the living history of the still-forming islands; as the older islands in the group recede into the waters, new islands are forming from giant underwater volcanoes. Contact your travel agent to book your trip to this amazing destination.
