The Galapagos are one of the new wonders of the world, also known for being the place where Charles Darwin formulated his revolutionary Theory of Evolution.
The first recorded visit to the Archipielago happened by accident, as with many wonders of the world. A happy accident, since we know them now as the home of unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes. The scenery ranges from cacti filled islands alive with the presence of pinchers, to rock formations in the middle of the sea, where you can dive and share the ocean for a moment with penguins, turtles, sharks and dolphins, while guarded by a giant sleeping lion who emerges like a sphynx in the vast pacific.
THE ENCHANTED ISLANDS IN THE PACIFIC
The Galapagos Islands are one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. This archipelago of islands is located 972 kilometers off the coast of Ecuador and it’s perhaps most famous for being the place where Charles Darwin first formulated his revolutionary theory of evolution.
It is not by chance that they’re also called The Enchanted Islands. A visit to the Galápagos Islands is a real once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the highlights of any visit to South America.
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WHAT NOT TO MISS IN gALAPAGOS
North Seymour Island
North Seymour island was named after an English noble named Lord Hugh Seymour, and was formed by the elevation of submarine lava. The entire island is covered with low, dense vegetation and has a trail for visitors that crosses the island and allows you to explore the rocky coast. There is a large population of blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls in this island, as well as land iguanas (Conolophus subcristatus), which are not native but migrated to the island. Numerous frigate birds and sea lions.
South Plaza Island
Formed from lava erupting from the ocean ground, this island, ehile small in size, is big on the concentration of Flora and Fauna it offers. Depending on the season you visit you will find a rocky coast filled with bright green vegetation during the rainy season, or an orange-purple filled coast.
Academy Bay – La Lobería
Tintoreras Islet
Los Túneles
Kicker Rock
Kicker Rock or Lobos Island is a small and flat islet, which can be reached by boat from San Cristobal. The islet is named this way as it is home to colonies of sea lions that play on the beaches and rest on the rocks as their brown fur stands out on the white sand. In addition, it is the ideal place to observe nesting frigate birds and blue footed boobies. Don’t miss out on snorkelling alongside sea lions and sea turtles!
The Highlands
The Wall of Tears
The Wall of Tears is about 25 metres (65 feet) high and caused thousands of deaths during its construction. The locals call it the ´wall of tears´, since according to the local myth, it is said that “creepy screams emanate” and it has a “heavy energy that surrounds it”.
Sierra Negra Volcano
destination map
| Title | Address | Description |
|---|---|---|
Quito | Quito, Ecuador | The country’s capital is an old Andean city, and although it doesn’t maintain much of its Inca origins, it’s still a testimony to the history of Ecuador and the merging of the Spanish and native cultures. Its historic downtown is the largest and best conserved in all of Latin America.Read more… |
Galapagos | Islas Galápagos, Ecuador | The first recorded visit to the Galapagos islands, happened by accident, as with many wonders of the world. A happy accident, since we know them now as the home of unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes.Read more… |
Colonial Cities | Cuenca, Ecuador | Nestled deep within the Peruvian Andes, the Sacred Valley is home to charming Inca towns, impressive archaeological sites, and traditional local markets. It is also one of the best areas in Peru for a wide range of adventure activities while en route to Machu Picchu. Read more… |
Andes Volcanoes | Soche, Ecuador | Known as the ‘City of Kings’, Lima is a city of contrasts. A mix of the old world and the new; modernity and tradition…Lima is a chaotic yet fascinating capital city. As well as being Peru’s capital, it is also the capital of gastronomy for all of the Americas! Read more… |
Amazon | Venezuela N6-09 & Mejía. 2nd Floor., Centro histórico Quito - Pichincha - Ecuador, Quito 170401, Ecuador | Legend has it that the children of the sun god, Manco Capac, and his sister, Mama Ocllo, rose from the depths of Lake Titicaca to build the Inca Empire. Explore the floating Uros Islands made from totora reeds and, discover the region’s authentic folklore. Read more… |
Baños de Agua Santa | Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador | Legend has it that the children of the sun god, Manco Capac, and his sister, Mama Ocllo, rose from the depths of Lake Titicaca to build the Inca Empire. Explore the floating Uros Islands made from totora reeds and, discover the region’s authentic folklore. Read more… |
Cloudforests | Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve & Lodge, Km 62 Ruta Antigua Nono, Tandayapa 170104, Ecuador | Early morning bird watching, late night jungle walking, fishing for piranhas, or a visit to the world’s largest macaw’s clay lick where hundreds of birds meet to feed – a truly colorful sight! There’s nothing like the wildlife that thrives in the Peruvian Amazon! Read more… |
Coast | 100 metros al este de la CLP terminal de buses en Olón Olón Vía a, Olon 240111, Ecuador | Situated on Peru’s arid desert coastline, this region boasts an interesting mix of ancient local culture, spectacular natural beauty and adventure sports. Ica, Paracas, and Nazca makes a great stop off or break point on a coastal ride towards Arequipa. Read more… |
Magical Spots | Manuel Cordova Galarza SN, Quito, Ecuador |
Depending on your client’s preferences, we can help you determine the best experiences tailored for your clients. From where to visit, when to go, what to do and how to get there safely, our travel experts will help you create an experience your clients will love.
Best times to
visit galapagos
The best time to visit the Galápagos Islands is from December to May. Although the Galápagos have a beautiful climate year-round, these months offer the most pleasant weather conditions for hiking and wildlife- spotting.
practical information
HOW TO GET THERE
The only way to get to the Galápagos Islands is by plane, flying in from the mainland of Ecuador. There are multiple daily flights to the Galápagos Islands leaving from Quito and Guayaquil. Flights arrive at airports located on Isla Baltra or Isla San Cristóbal and are operated by Avianca and LATAM.
GETTING AROUND
Transportation in Galapagos is an easy matter. In Santa Cruz, you will find particular and private buses, and in all habited islands there are taxi cabs (more pick-up trucks than actual cabs), and riding a bicycle to get you where you want to go is always a fun option too.
To hop from island to island there’s also no lack of boats that depart to all the habited islands you want to reach, and a wide variety of particular boats and cruises that can take you on cruises. We just have to warn you that it might get bumpy; and a rainjacket and hat are always good company.
WHERE TO STAY
Galapagos islands offer a wide range of hotels to stay and also cruise ships that vary in size, capacity, and services available. Every type of traveler is sure to find something to their liking. It all depends on your budget, the islands and places you want to visit, and whether you get seasick or not!
The islands gastronomy also offers a wide range of choices. You can find many upscale restaurants, but the meals at the local market are also not to be left aside! We especially recommend their empanadas for a quick and budget friendly pick-me-up. Bon appetit!
more highlights of Ecuador
With eight local offices in Latin America, we have the perfect base to help you build the perfect trip for your clients. Unrivaled experience with a wide selection of bed & breakfasts, small posadas, unique boutique hotels and world class luxurious lodging.