The Galapagos Islands are among the premier wildlife viewing destinations in the world, and the best place to see evolution in action. We offer cruises and land-based trips to fit the needs of any traveler. The history of the islands, as the place that inspired Charles Darwin into developing the theory of evolution, alone is worth the trip. Because most of the islands and surrounding ocean are protected as a national park, visitors today can still hike among giant tortoises, snorkel and kayak with sea lions, sharks, and penguins, and view the finches that compelled Darwin to think about how such unique species came into being. Aventouras guests can visit three islands by private boat, snorkeling our favorite places and hiking into the highlands while enjoying the towns and beachfront hotels, or cruise among the islands on a four, five, or eight day adventure vacation itinerary.

The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos archipelago is made up of about 20 islands and over a hundred tiny islets and rocks jutting out of the water, all located along the equator about 600 miles west of Ecuador. The largest of the islands is Isabela, which is about 85 miles long and contains about half of the total land area of the archipelago. Isabela also contains the islands’ highest point, at 5,600 feet. Four of the islands—Isabela, Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, and Floreana - are inhabited, with a total population of around 20,000 people. The largest town in the islands is Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz.

Geology and Life Zones

The Galapagos are volcanic islands, as evidenced by the barren volcanic landscapes visible in many places across the islands, as well as fumaroles and other volcanic activity in the Sierra Negra crater on Isabela. The original barren landscapes have given way to vegetation in most parts of the islands, but still influence the evolution of species that struggle to survive in a generally inhospitable land. The combination of elevation changes and differences in moisture on different sides of the islands lead to numerous life zones within the archipelago, from arid areas near the coasts to lush evergreen cloud forests.

Wildlife

Galapagos is best known for the often intriguing, sometimes even bizarre, wildlife found throughout the islands. Mainland species are laboratories of evolution, having evolved in isolation, far away from the competitive pressures of the mainland but subject to the harsh environment of the islands. Darwin’s finches may be the best-known example, but giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and sea birds including blue-footed boobies are among the captivating species that are easier to spot. The Galapagos are also a fascinating region for marine life, because they are influenced by two marine currents, the cold Humboldt current and the warm Panama current. The result is a snorkeling paradise, rich with sea lions, penguins, sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish. 

When to go

The Galapagos Islands are a great year-round travel destination.  Situated so close to the equator, the climate of the Galapagos is always very pleasant. June through December is called the dry season and is characterized by blue skies and mid-day showers. During this time of the year the sea mammals and land birds are most active. December through May is called the warm season and is more tropical, meaning daily rain and cloudier skies. This is the season that the island birds are more active and the ocean temperature is warmer for snorkeling or swimming. Regardless of when you travel to the Galapagos there will always be amazing wildlife to see and experience!