10 Reasons to Visit the Galapagos Islands
Are you planning to visit the Galapagos Islands? Here are ten reasons to travel to this famous Ecuadorian archipelago, which belongs to the most beautiful places in the world. Why visit the Galapagos Islands? We've put together a list of the best reasons to explore this paradise.
The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador have an aura of a place that is for many out of reach.
We are not afraid to say that the well-famous archipelago in the Pacific Ocean is a long-desired and dream destination for every traveler all around the world.
There's simply hardly a place on this planet similar to the Galapagos.
And who would not like to walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, who lay the foundations for his revolutionary evolution theory?
We must say that visiting the Galapagos Islands is very inspirational in many ways, which actually might be our first secret reason why you should start planning a trip to this exceptional destination.
Although the Galapagos isn't (and probably will never be) the cheapest and the easiest accessible place in the world, it still attracts an unbelievable number of visitors (although there is a strict limit on how many people can arrive in the Galapagos).
The Galapagos Islands are, for sure, not a budget-friendly travel destination.
Still, there are many ways to arrange your best week (or more) in the paradise - from cruising the Galapagos archipelago and living on board to making day trips from one of the inhabited islands. And where's the will, there's way.
We were fortunate enough to experience this paradise on a 7-day Galapagos Islands Cruise.
WHY VISIT THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
There's an endless number of reasons why visit the Galapagos Islands. Truly, it is a destination on its own.
Many travelers do not even consider to visit Ecuador, and this archipelago is often the only place they visit in this South American country.
We think it is a shame, but on the other hand, we absolutely understand what is all the fuss about. Galapagos Islands are unique, and the opportunity to see many wildlife species combined with pristine nature is very appealing.
But what are the main selling points?
Why should you put the Galapagos Islands on your Ecuador itinerary? Why should you visit this relatively remote part of the world?
Let's have a look at the top reasons that should persuade you to book tickets, pack all the memory cards you have, and set off.
#1 PRISTINE BEACHES
You might come to the Galapagos Islands to see the wildlife, but we must mention the beaches first.
We know that you can see wonderful beaches in many countries around the world, but it is nowadays hard to find such secluded beaches as here on the Galapagos Islands.
The long stretches of white fine sand are on almost every island in the archipelago and although you probably won't have that much time to lay down and relax here (because there is so much to do), only walking on those beaches from one end to another is an unforgettable experience.
Do not expect bars, deck chairs, or umbrellas; this is not Copacabana Beach.
Beaches on the Galapagos have nothing in common with those crowded and touristy places from travel catalogs - it is a different, calm world.
The only downside is the limited time. Every cruise, every tour, and therefore every traveler can spend only a limited time at each destination, according to a schedule every travel company that can operate on the Galapagos has to follow.
On the other hand, every moment we spent on a beach, it did not matter which island was unique, and we always tried to get the most of it.
#2 WILDLIFE
When we were preparing for our trip to the Galapagos Islands, we suspected that the wildlife would be unique and marvelous. What we could not know was that these superlatives would get a new dimension on the Galapagos.
All animal species from birds, iguanas, sea lions, tortoises, and crabs to fish are incredible here.
Nothing can prepare you for their natural behavior, which is so dissimilar from the behavior of animals we can know from our home countries.
The Galapagos animals don't fear humans at all, so that you can get incredibly close to them (or them to you) and take pictures of a lifetime.
Of course, keep your distance, but sometimes it is almost impossible to stay away as seals do not have a problem sleeping on a sandy trail, or you will have to give way to feeding frigates.
When it comes to wildlife, the Galapagos are a paradise.
Consider bringing camera with a proper telephoto lens that will help you capture some of the most incredible moments.
#3 SNORKELING AND DIVING
Wildlife on the mainland is super-interesting, but it is also worth it to look underwater.
The Galapagos Islands are also known as a perfect snorkeling and diving destination. We did not try diving but can only confirm that snorkeling is something you shouldn't miss.
There are two seasons on the Galapagos - approximately a half year when the water is warm and the other half when the sea is colder and rougher. Although we visited the islands in the colder season, wearing a wetsuit was sufficient enough to enjoy snorkeling comfortably.
You can see many fish species, sharks, manta rays, swim with playful sea lions, but the highlights for us were huge turtles we could see in the Galapagos' waters.
Of course, it is not compulsory to snorkel in the Galapagos, but it is surely a reason to get out of your comfort zone and jump into the water.
We do not have underwater photos as we did not have a GoPro at the time of our visit, but it makes sense to bring an underwater camera.
On the other hand, it was a great feeling to forget about the 'duty' to take photos all the time and just swim with the underwater creatures.
Although we visited the islands in the colder season, wearing a wetsuit was sufficient enough to enjoy snorkeling comfortably.
You can see many specious of fish, sharks, manta rays, swim with playful sea lions but the highlights for us were huge turtles we could see in the waters of the Galapagos.
#4 INLAND HIKES
There are several designated paths on the islands of Galapagos, which will walk you through a unique landscape and help you better understand the process of evolution of the islands and how these islands were formed.
These walks will also reveal to you most of the fauna and flora that live here in unbelievable symbiosis.
Most of the hikes are short, and visitors cannot walk on the islands independently, so you will need a certified guide to show you around.
Hikes were one of our favorite activities we did on the Galapagos as it usually combined the exploration of almost barren volcanic islands and wildlife watching.
These trails were quite short, and even though it was not about any serious hiking, it always took us a while as we walked super-slow to take it all in. As most archipelago islands have a volcanic origin, it is highly recommended to wear sturdy shoes.
Another reason why we liked island hikes so much?
We must admit that despite the fact that spending a week on a cruise was amazing, we often felt seasick, so these walks were always very welcomed activities as we could escape the sea rocky sea for a while.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
#5 VIEWS AND LANDSCAPE
One of the most photographed and must-see views on the Galapagos Islands is the one on Bartolome Island.
The volcanic island with harsh conditions offers a well-worth view of black lava covered with vegetation, which slowly descends into the water with the Pinnacle Rock in the background. But not only Bartolome Island is what you should be looking forward to seeing.
Islands of the Galapagos Islands are unique, and unlike each other, so you will easily remember them forever. We were actually quite surprised by the landscape.
Admittedly, before our trip, we had usually searched for the photos of cute animals, but we quickly understood here that the unique fauna goes hand in hand with the amazing landscape and that the one could not thrive without the other and vice versa.
#6 ALL YEAR ROUND DESTINATION
Believe it or not, the Galapagos Islands are an all-year-round destination, and in this case, it is not only the marketing trick.
Although nowadays every destination would like to have the privilege to say that you can arrive anytime and have a similar experience, unfortunately not everywhere and not every time it is true.
The Galapagos Islands have two seasons - wet and dry.
The wet season is usually warm and sunny except for a short afternoon shower. In contrast, the dry season is colder (understand that the temperatures are mild, still around 24 degrees Celsius), the sea is rougher.
Still, it does not rain apart from an occasional mist (the phenomenon is called garua) above the mainland.
When it comes to a season when to visit the archipelago, you should only consider wildlife. You will see animals during every season, but one period can be better to see young ones, while the other can be better to observe mating season.
Because the weather on the Galapagos Islands can be unpredictable, we’ve created the Galapagos Islands packing list to help you figure out what to pack and what to leave behind.
Here is a short list of things you should pack:
Motion Sickness Pills or Anti-Emetic Device | Snorkel Mask | Wetsuit | Waterproof Dry Bag | Reef Friendly Sunscreen | Kindle
#7 IT IS ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE
No matter how dramatic this can sound, visiting the Galapagos Islands is once in a lifetime experience. Yes, some lucky travelers get here more times, but it is really not a standard.
This is probably the main reason why so many people are so driven to see this destination. We won't tell you it is not expensive, because it is (although there are ways you can make your trip cheaper). But this should not keep you away.
The fauna and flora on the islands are unlike anywhere else, and if you want to see it, you simply need to visit the Galapagos.
Because the Galapagos Islands have a stick of exclusivity, you can meet many travelers celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, or birthdays.
#8 YOU WILL LEARN A LOT
The visit to the Galapagos Islands is not only about relaxing, enjoying excellent beaches, or photographing wildlife.
It is also about learning and gaining knowledge about the unique habitat.
Exploring the Galapagos Islands goes hand in hand with education, and we found it great to get all the information from our guides about the special place on the planet Earth we had a chance to visit.
The Galapagos Islands is a place that inspired Charles Darwin to lay the foundations for his revolutionary evolution theory and the theory of natural selection.
Now travelers get the opportunity to see the islands and be educated about the interesting processes happening all around the Galapagos. It would be a shame not to take this advantage.
#9 SUSTAINABILITY AND RESPONSIBLE TRAVELING
Lately, we could read the sad news about places (especially in Southeast Asia) which had to be closed for the public because irresponsible tourism has destroyed those destinations.
The Galapagos Islands National Park management realizes how fragile the islands' environment is and takes all precautions to save and restore this place.
If you are looking for a destination where sustainability and responsible traveling are not only plain words, come to the Galapagos.
The number of visitors and places that can be visited are strictly monitored, and the main focus is quality over quantity.
As we traveled the Galapagos with Ecoventura, one of the main reasons we actually opted for this company was their attitude to environment.
If sustainable travel and reduction of plastic use concerns you, make sure to choose a reputable travel agency.
#10 IT IS AWESOME
If you need any other reason why to visit the Galapagos Islands, we'll give it to you. It is simply awesome and for us, cruising the archipelago for a week was one of the best travel experiences we've ever had.
Really, nothing can prepare you for a destination like this: a destination that attacks all your senses, day and night.
In a nutshell, we have only words of praise for the Galapagos, and we can say that usually, we are not that easily pleased.
Hopefully, this post has ignited your wanderlust, and we've given you compelling reasons why you should visit the Galapagos Islands.
WHERE TO STAY ON THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
When on the Galapagos, you can stay on one of four inhabited islands.
We've created an article with recommended hotels in this post - Where to Stay on the Galapagos Islands for every budget to help you find the perfect accommodation for your travel style and travel budget.
If you are visiting Ecuador soon, don't forget to make your hotel reservation.
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Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
