About The Galapagos Islands
The “Enchanted Islands” The Galapagos – The Middle of the World
Located 970 km (600 miles) west of the Ecuadorian coast on the Equator, the Galapagos Islands consist of 6 main islands, 12 smaller islands and over 40 small islets.
The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands that originated about 10 million years ago and continue forming to this day due to volcanic eruptions where lava flows into the sea.
Evolution in the Galapagos
Since their formation 10 million years ago, to their discovery in 1535 by Thomas de Berlanga, the Spanish Bishop of Panama, the Galapagos Islands were completely isolated from the mainland. Throughout the millennia, a large number of birds, reptiles, insects, and plants drifted or flew to its shores, creating the unique flora and fauna found in the Galapagos today. The Islands have never been connected to a continent, therefore, over time, species have developed and adapted to the unique ecosystems of the Islands. Many species continued on and soon began to differentiate from their continental ancestors resulting in the development of many endemic species (not found anywhere else) on the Islands. Until recently, the animals on the Islands had no exposure to humans and therefore never learned to fear them and remain extremely tame in human presence.
At the culmination of his journey around the world with the HMS Beagle (1831-1836), the English scientist Charles Darwin, arrived at the Galapagos Islands in September 1835. The scientific findings he made during his stay at the Galapagos built the basis of his essay “Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection” that completely changed the course of biological science.
When you visit the Galapagos Islands you will quickly understand why the Spanish pirate Diego de Rivadeneira named the Islands “Las Islas Encantadas” (The enchanted islands). The Islands are filled with prehistoric looking land iguanas, 11 different species of giant tortoises, which give the Island their name (galapago means tortoise in Spanish), mocking birds pecking at your shoe laces, curious sea lions playing with you while you snorkel. There are 13 species of endemic finches (the famous Darwin’s finches), moon like landscapes and mist-covered volcanic peaks, red sand beaches, strange forests of prickly pear cactus, the world’s pinkest flamingoes (!), the biggest breeding-colony of albatrosses in the world, blue-footed boobies performing their “sky pointing” dance, and hunting penguins swimming around your legs. These Islands are truly enchanting.
The Galapagos Islands are famous for their unique species. All the reptiles, half of the plants, and 40% of the birds are endemic to the Galapagos.
Travel to Galapagos
There is no single best time to go to the Galapagos and the climate is pleasant all year round. That said, depending on your preferences of weather and what wildlife and wildlife events you want to see, you may want to choose the precise time of year you travel.
Our boats will take you to many of the different Islands. Each stop provides the incredible opportunity to go snorkeling among playful Sea lions, Dolphins, Sharks (totally safe!), innumerable tropical fish, and giant Manta Rays. You will also have the opportunity to watch the amusing red- and blue- footed boobies, huge land iguanas, and all the other endemic animals on the Island. The boats offer shore excursions where you can explore the different Islands, admire the unique plant life and animals, and be filled with information from an English speaking naturalist guide. There is never a dull moment in the Galapagos. We have many different boats that will satisfy all your needs. From smaller motor sailor yachts, to economy and luxury cruises. Imagine, plentiful sun, warm breezes, crystal clear water, and an abundance of flora and fauna; our boats are an excellent choice for enjoying the Galapagos Islands.
Our hotels will let you experience and enjoy the calm and serenity of the Galapagos Islands before or after your cruise. We offer to you hotels with comfortable rooms and excellent services and facilities. Our hotels will provide you with the opportunity to rest and relax in peace and tranquility during your stay in the Galapagos. We offer to you hotels on the Islands of Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Floreana, and Isabela.
We also offered you Land-Based Tours of the Islands, an attractive alternative to enjoy the Galapagos Islands with your family or friends. These tours offer you a chance to explore the different Islands of the Galapagos and stay at a near by hotel. We offer numerous tours to fit all of your needs. On our combined tours you will have the opportunity to see what these enchanted Islands have to offer such as, sea lions, tortoises, iguanas, different marine species, as well as other flora and fauna . In addition, you could see all the highlights of the Galapagos and enjoy a stay in beautiful accommodations.
Galapagos Travel Guide
Recent Travel Articles
Information On Each Important Galapagos Island
Here's the top islands and visitor spots that you don't want to miss when you visit the Galapagos Islands
What Animals Are Most Commonly Seen in the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are home to hundreds of wildlife species. Which ones are most commonly seen? Read on to find out!
Sea Kayaking in the Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands has some of the most fascinating endemic and native marine life in the ocean, and sea kayaking in the Galapagos can be a great way to witness the pelagic life up close.
Photography Trips in the Galapagos Islands
Capturing your Galapagos experience in stunning pictures is a great way to remember your Galapagos journey and share it with friends and family back home. But if you’re a rookie photographer who’s never really had much experience, you’ll want to practice before you leave so that you’re ready when your Galapagos adventure begins!
Geology of the Islands of Fire: Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands were born of fire - the same fire that melts the earth’s crust and has created a unique natural environment that could not exist without it. While many people visit the Galapagos Islands each year for the stunning wildlife, others feel that the geology itself is the most fascinating characteristic in the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Transit Card and National Park Fees
When planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, there are two important fees that you must be prepared for: the Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee ($100/ person) and the Transit Control Card ($20/ person). Both must be paid in cash, and without them, you will be denied entry into the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Marine Iguanas
Perhaps no better case can be made for adaptation than the marine iguana! Just about everything about this ancient lizard points to evolution at its finest.
Galapagos Giant Tortoises
The Galapagos Giant tortoise is perhaps the most iconic animal in Ecuador. In fact, they lend their name to the whole archipelago - when the Spanish explorers first came to the islands, they thought the shells of these giant tortoises resembled a Spanish-style saddle, or “galapago.”
Galapagos Boat FAQs
Ever since tourism in the Galapagos Islands exploded in the late 20th century, cruises have reigned as the number one way to explore the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Local Flights, Airports & Ground Transportation
Learn all about transportation on and between the Galapagos Islands
Plan Your Trip
New Galapagos Yachts & Ships 2022
New Galapagos Yachts & Ships 2022 [...]
6-Day Galapagos Cruises
Most experts believe that an 8-day cruise is the best balance of time on the islands for the money. While shorter cruises are extremely limited in what you get to see, many people feel that two-week cruises are expensive, long, and even exhausting.
How to Charter a Luxury Yacht in Galapagos
Are you planning a Galapagos trip with a big group? Whether it’s a family reunion, a business retreat or small group project, or a special occasion like an anniversary, chartering a cruise can be a great way to share these moments with family, friends, and colleagues.
How Much Does a Galapagos Cruise Cost?
There’s no such thing as a “bad” Galapagos cruise, but it’s also definitely true that the more you pay, the more amazing your experience will be, in terms of comfort, experience, food, guides, and trip length. All cruises are all-inclusive, meaning that your ticket price includes meals onboard, lodging, and any transportation specifically listed in the itinerary
Top Galapagos Resorts, Lodges & All-Inclusive Vacations
The Galapagos Islands are home to ecologically conscious lodges and resorts that combine natural adventures and relaxing beachside.
Galapagos Hotels & Land-based Trip FAQs
Galapagos land-based tours are quickly gaining popularity as a great cost-effective alternative. Plus, the growing number of resorts, hotels, and other local businesses in the main towns means that there has never been a better time to plan a land-based Galapagos tour.
6 Hacks for How To Choose the Perfect Galapagos Cruise
When planning a Galapagos cruise, it might seem like the options are limitless, but keep these hacks in mind and planning it will be a breeze.
When to Visit the Galapagos Islands
When is the best time to go to the Galapagos? There is no best time really. Any time is great to visit, but it's helpful to know the basics of Galapagos' climate and other variables such as wildlife activities and tourist high and low seasons in order to pick just the right time of year that will feature the things you wish to see and do.
Visiting the Galapagos Islands on a Budget
Although the Galapagos Islands host some of the most luxurious cruises and nature lodges, it's also a great destination for those looking to explore the best nature has to offer on a budget. The best way to balance your budget is to plan ahead. A little bit of forward thinking and investigation before your trip can save you a bunch of money.
Island Hopping in the Galapagos
Island hopping in the Galapagos Islands, also known as land-based tours, is the only other way to see the islands if you are not on a cruise. Cruises used to be the only way to visit the archipelago, but now travelers can base their excursions from a hotel on one of the four main islands to which they will return every night.
Wildlife of the Galapagos Islands
What Animals Are Most Commonly Seen in the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are home to hundreds of wildlife species. Which ones are most commonly seen? Read on to find out!
Galapagos Marine Iguanas
Perhaps no better case can be made for adaptation than the marine iguana! Just about everything about this ancient lizard points to evolution at its finest.
Galapagos Giant Tortoises
The Galapagos Giant tortoise is perhaps the most iconic animal in Ecuador. In fact, they lend their name to the whole archipelago - when the Spanish explorers first came to the islands, they thought the shells of these giant tortoises resembled a Spanish-style saddle, or “galapago.”
Endemic Species in the Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are considered by biologists one of the world’s most pristine “natural laboratories,” where some of the most fascinating life can be observed in its purest forms. It is here, in the varied and unique ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands, isolated in the Pacific Ocean by more than 600 miles from the mainland, that many endemic species thrive.
The Galapagos Marine Sanctuary
As of March 21, 2016, a new marine sanctuary has been established in the Galapagos Islands. In response to high levels of legal and illegal fishing operations and other resource exploitation, Ecuadorian president Rafael Correa signed an executive order to designate the area surrounding Wolf and Darwin Islands as a protected area.