Galapagos Islands Adventure Travel Guide

Discover the unique Galapagos Islands on a honeymoon adventure or romantic getaway. Journey in Darwin’s footsteps to one of the world’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries, a beautiful group of volcanic islands more than 4.5 million years old, located 1000km off the western coast of Ecuador.

With its pristine natural environment and spectacular wildlife, this tiny island chain is home to a fantastic array of birds and mammals. As a result of its extreme isolation, nearly a quarter of all species are endemic to these islands and much of the wildlife has no instinctive fear of man. In this unique environment it’s easy to have astonishingly close encounters with different species.

Things to do and see
Explore Isabela and Fernandina islands, home to large and colourful Galapagos land iguanas, marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins and the famous giant tortoises. And don’t miss the sea turtles that come out at night for nesting on Gardner Bay.

Stroll along the same shores that Charles Darwin walked back in September 1835. Discover coves and sheltered mangrove lagoons for swimming and snorkelling close to unique and friendly wildlife. Hike the island’s rugged terrain for suburb views of this pristine World Heritage site. Highlights include:

• Blue-footed, red-footed and masked boobies are found alongside pelicans, mockingbirds, Galapagos penguins, frigate birds and finches made famous by Charles Darwin

• Come face to face with penguins and marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, sea lions, fur seals, dolphins and sea turtles

• Explore the islands’ only rainforest

• Witness rare giant land tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Centre

• Learn about the unique flora, fauna and geology from your ship’s resident naturalist

• Discover the spectacular rock formations of Kicker Rock, rising 144m from the ocean on San Cristobal Island

• Hike up the volcanic cone of Isla Bartolome and take in spectacular views of the islands

• Enjoy a stroll across the lava terrain of Hood Island and don’t miss the famous blowhole

• Visit the famous Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the ‘rearing in captivity’ program for the giant tortoises

• Snorkel among speedy penguins and kayak close to playful and curious sea lions by day; stargaze from the deck of your ship at night.

Best time to visit the Galapagos Islands?
March through May are the ideal months to visit the islands, with fewer visitors and great weather – hot and sunny with the occasional shower.

The Galapagos Islands enjoy warm and dry weather year round, with an average temperature of 28˚C. June to September is characterised by a cool mist with temperatures averaging 21˚C.

Location – The Galapagos Islands are located 1000km off the western coast of Ecuador.

Getting around – Transport is typically a dinghy from the mother ship and then by foot. Be prepared for what are known as wet and dry landings by panga (dinghy) onto sandy or rocky beaches. Wet landings require you to wade to shore in up to knee-deep water, while dry landings are made along rocky outcroppings and require a bit of agility to avoid turning a dry landing into a wet one. Watch out for slippery seaweed!