Galapagos Islands Holidays

A Holiday to the Galapagos Islands is a must-do!

The Galapagos Islands are a small group of islands that belong to Ecuador in the eastern part of the Pacific Ocean. The isolated islands consist of 13 main islands and 6 smaller isles which altogether stretch along 50 000 sq km of the ocean. Consider Galapagos Islands holidays for unforgettable time of life.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the islands are well known for their exquisite wildlife that range from the world’s only sea iguana to giant tortoises, toucans and a multitude of different bird species.

To protect the natural habitats, strict controls are placed on access to the islands and all travelers must be accompanied by certified tour guides. Just like Ecuador’s mainland, the Islands have a somewhat erratic climate, with mainly two seasons, hot and rainy from December to June and cooler, windy climes from June to November.

Some of the best months for wildlife enthusiasts to visit are December – May and June-August. The first is when the seas are calmer and the weather at its warmest, but the latter sees more active animals. For diving fundis, July to November are optimal months for whale shark spotting.

Although the remoteness of the archipelago makes a visit to the Galapagos pricey, it is well worth the journey. Visitors can access the islands by plane from Quito or Guayaquil airports with departing flights in the mornings. Alternatively, private yachts can be chartered into one of the 5 ports and those who wish to cruise around the islands will need to obtain a special permit from the national park.

The best way to lap up the unique wildlife and stunning sites is by boat. Each island limits the number of visitors it can hold so there is a better chance to enjoy what nature has to offer.

Visitors have to follow their tour guide’s instructions and stick to the marked paths, but the mere fact that the animals are so tame that they will sit on the path or cross it right in front of visitors, makes the rules and regulations worth adhering to.

Diving and snorkeling are extremely popular past times on the islands as the sea life is incredible. Snorkeling is a good way to swim with the likes of sea turtles, sea lions and other amazing creatures whilst diving has been described as one of the best in the world and divers will enjoy the healthiest marine environment.

Dives are conducted daily with local operators but it is the Galapagos liveaboards that bring tourists to the islands as it is only by this means that tourists can reach Wolf and Darwin. These islands are not suitable for beginners owing to strong currents but the marine life is an amazing assortment of Silk sharks, Galapagos sharks, eagle rays and sea lions.

Fishing in the Reserve for tuna and marlin is popular amongst visitors but licenses are required. Many organized tours include hiking as part of their trips and it’s a great way to tour the highlands and learn about the vegetation and formation. Many of the locals enjoy surfing the Galapagos due to the ideal waves. Tourists are able to rent boards on the islands.

There are a couple of popular tourist sites that include Los Gemelos, or the twins, which are two pit craters that were formed when empty magma chambers collapsed. Another site is Alcedo Volcano on Isabela Island which is home to the largest population of tortoises. It is the only volcano that visitors can climb. Finally, the Devil’s Crown is a snorkeling site where visitors will witness a completely submerged volcano.

The Galapagos Islands Holidays provide a trip of wonderment, adventure and learning for all.