Ecuador in the north west of South America, is the jumping off point for visits to the world famous Galápagos Islands, in the Pacific Ocean 600 miles off its East coast.
Remote, spectacular and utterly unique, the islands are a once in a lifetime destination for anyone interested in the natural world. The diverse wildlife and dramatic volcanic landscape excite even the most hardened traveller. Where else can you meet face to face with a giant tortoise, snorkel with penguins and dive with sea lions?
Darwin’s Galápagos Islands consist of 19 Volcanic. Wildlife wanders freely and almost fearlessly in the Galápagos, which are home to many endemic species such as the flightless cormorant and the marine and land iguanas. You may also glimpse a frigate bird in courtship, his bright-red breast puffed up in a dazzling display, or the spectacular dive of a blue-footed booby fishing close to shore, or the graceful waved albatross – so comical and clumsy when taking flight.
You can combine your trip easily with mainland Ecuador, which is famous for its diversity, including the Amazon basin, the Andes or enjoying the plentiful wildlife. Or why not take time to visit the amazing Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, in Peru.
A trip combining the Galápagos and the nearby mainland is a wonderful way for those fascinated by the natural world to have their fill.
Tell us what you’d like to do and we’ll arrange it for you
Top Tips for getting the most from a trip to the Galápagos islands
- Access to the Islands is always limited to protect the environment so book well in advance
- Take a 3, 4 or 7 night cruise to fully experience the beauty and diversity of the islands and to admire the amazing land and marine life.
- Hotel stays and walking tours are available for those who haven’t found their sea-legs.
- There is a National Park entrance fee required so don’t forget your $110 cash
- Combine your trip easily with main land Ecuador (including the Amazon basin) and with Peru including Machu Picchu (lost city of the Incas)
See a sample Galapagos Islands itinerary
