Travel back in time and explore the world like Charles Darwin did. Taking a Galapagos Islands Vacation is one of the most unique trips you’ll ever go on, because the islands feel untouched. This beautiful area is made up of 16 islands that have stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife. You’ll be amazed at the crystal clear blue waters and the bountiful fish beneath the surface. As soon as you go, you’ll feel like you’re on an episode of Animal Planet. It’s a once in a lifetime adventure that you’ll remember forever.
I have been to 45 countries and this was one of the most unforgettable places I have ever been. There are many things to consider when planning a trip to the Galapagos. Below are some of the best tips to consider before you make your travel plans!
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Galapagos Island Vacation Tips
#1. The Wildlife There is Unparalleled
Most people go to the Galapagos to see the incredible animals that live there. Most of these animals are endemic to the Galapagos, which means they don’t live anywhere else in the world. The best way to get to see them is exploring multiple islands, because they have different animals on their shores. See if you can spot them all on your trip!
Animals Endemic to the Galapagos:
- Blue Footed Booby
- Marine Iguana
- Galapagos Land Iguana
- Galapagos Penguin
- Galapagos Giant Tortoise
- Galapagos Sea Lion
- Many more!
#2. It’s Fairly Expensive
The average traveler spends $115 a day in the Galapagos. The park itself costs $100 to enter, which you pay upon landing in the Galapagos. Despite that, you can travel to the islands on a budget you will just have to do extra planning.
Most people take an all-inclusive trip through the islands, so most of the expenses are covered in one lump sum. If you want to spend less, the best thing to do is stay on an island like Santa Cruz in a hostel or small hotel and take day tours from the island!
#3. The Best Way to See Things is by Boat
Although cruises may cost more money, it’s the best way to do a Galapagos Islands vacation. Many of the islands are farther away, and you wouldn’t be able to access them in a day trip. So, the boats will allow you to see more. Cruises range anywhere from $1000 for 4 days to $10,000. The average price of a Galapagos cruise is $3000.
Each island is incredibly unique and you’ll see diverse wildlife by going to more of them. Luckily, the cruises are limited in numbers so the biggest ships can only carry 100 passengers. You can find cheaper budget options or simply choose to splurge on a nicer cruise.
#4. You May Need Tours
Because the wildlife in the Galapagos is so unique, the Park is extremely regulated. They want to ensure that the islands maintain their ecosystems and tourists don’t harm the environments. So, most places on the Galapagos require a tour guide.
You can easily book day tours to see the highlights that you want. If you’re staying on a boat, then you’ll have tour guides from the cruise so you won’t need to worry about it. Many of the hotels on the islands also have their own tour guides you can book.
#5. The Park has Strict Regulations
The Galapagos Island Government enforces strict regulations to enter the islands. Before you even get there, you’ll have to get your bags inspected at your departure airport. There is a separate room at the Quito airport dedicated to inspecting bags going to the Galapagos. Once they’ve been inspected, then you are given a special tag on your bags.
Then, when you land they will inspect your bags again. They want to make sure you aren’t bringing anything that is invasive or will disrupt the ecosystem. So, you can’t bring seeds, plants, or animals. Stick to processed foods that are still wrapped, if you need to have your own snacks.
#6. Animals Aren’t Afraid of Humans
Charles Darwin was the first one to note this strange phenomena he noticed on the island. Animals there seem to lack the fear that most other animals have around the world. People aren’t 100% sure why this is the case, but scientists theorize that it’s because there aren’t predators on the islands.
So, animals are not afraid of humans. This was one of the coolest things to observe int the Galapagos. Animals on the Galapagos will just keep behaving as if you aren’t even there. Birds don’t mind flying near you, sea lions swim up to you, and iguanas just ignore you. The only animal that got nervous was the Tortoises and this is probably because explorers used to hunt them and eat them.
#7. It’s Uncrowded
The main islands like Santa Cruz can get crowded, but as soon as you travel to the other islands you’ll instantly feel the remoteness of these places. There is a very strict limit on the number of tourists that are allowed in the Galapagos at any time. Also, each tour group is given very specific time slots on when they are allowed to go to certain places.
This means that when you are touring a specific place, you will often be the only group there. It’s so special to get to see these beautiful islands and feel like you’re the only ones there.
#8. Each Island has a Unique Ecosystem
The islands were originally formed from volcanoes. So, each of the islands is a different age and has a completely different landscape. These volcanoes have been around for hundreds of millions of years and overtime they have transformed.
Some are now super flat and others are still very lush. Because of their vastly different landscapes, they have different wildlife that live on them but also different weather patterns. For example, Santa Cruz is very rainy but islands right next to it are arid and dry.
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I’m looking to plan a trip here next month. Your pictures make me want to see it in person even more. Would you say it’s safe for solo travel?
Yes, everyone there was super kind and friendly. I know of people who have gone alone to the Galapagos and just booked a boat trip or hostel with good reviews. If you want any of their instagram handles to reach out to them, let me know!