The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands were somewhere I always dreamed of going to, so when I did get the opportunity to visit it literally was a dream come true. I was very privileged to visit on a private yacht and spent three weeks in these pristine, varied, incredible islands.

All visits to the Galapagos Islands are very controlled so as to not have too many visitors in the one area, a terrific idea for both guests to the islands and the animal inhabitants, not to mention the environment. Visitors must also stay on the designated tracks and all animals have right of way. As a guest on the islands you may not approach the wildlife but they can and do approach you . All our party had incredible experiences getting close and personal with blue footed boobies, owls who are out in daylight (no predators) albatross, hawks, nascar boobies, red footed boobies, frigate birds, land and marine iguanas, penguins, sea lion pups and of course the Galapagos tortoise.

The ideal is to visit several islands as each has their own unique inhabitants, for example flamingos are found on Floreana, albatross on Espanola, tortoises on San Cristobal with sea lions, iguanas and the birds on almost all the islands although there are marked differences between the same species. There is a range of cruises running tours or you can stay on the islands and travel by ferry although with this option you are limited to only a few islands.

Another requisite is to take a local guide. Our guide, Antonio, was a font of knowledge who made the whole experience even more memorable. He managed to convey a ton of information in a manner that was enjoyable and informative while being amusing and catered for both the adults and children in the party. As well as explanations on the wildlife, he educated us on the geography and geology of the islands as well as some of the history.

This was an experience that I can whole heartedly recommend to both adults and children. If I ever am given the opportunity to visit again I will be jumping at it. To swim with penguins in your face and play under water with sea lions was truly a magical experience.

Entry fees to the park itself are reasonably expensive, however it was reassuring to know that 100% of the fees went to the park for the upkeep of the world treasure and no where else.

The Galapagos Islands are 1,000kms from the Ecuadorian mainland, approximately 2 hours flying time. There are three flights daily from either Quito or Guayaquil. Airfares will vary according to the point of departure and time of year with the high season running Nov 1 – April 30/Jun 15 – Sept 14 and low season May 1- Jun14/Sept 15 – Oct 31. You will need to arrive in Quito or Guayaquil one day before your departure for the islands as there are no direct connections with international flights.

Courtesy of Heather from Pack Ya Bags - please click here to read about Heather or ask her a Travel question.

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