GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

How to experience an EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME

The Galapagos Islands…the location conjures up an idyllic, lusciously-preserved landscape dotted with its unique flora and fauna.  Every idea of this place that you have dreamt up is exactly how it is!  Once here, you will be a visitor to the highlands, home of the giant tortoises, you will dig your feet into the white sand beaches and kayak alongside sharks and turtles and you will jump from rock to rock as you are careful not to miss a step when noticing an iguana’s shade spot under a cactus.  To explore this land and finally see the bird that belongs to those bright blue feet you’ve only seen on National Geographic channel, follow this Galapagos
Guide to maximize your time as you step back in time.

Galapagos Guiding Steps
1.    Land or Sea?  This question is an important one in determining how you want to travel and see the
Galapagos.  Are you the type of traveler that desires more open-ended time or beach time?  Do you like having a home-base?  Then, staying at a resort may be the better choice for you.  Are you an avid snorkeler or diver?  Do you want to see more remote islands?  Then, a cruise may be better suited for your needs.
 
2.    Prioritize.  This is an experience that is inclusive of so much to see and to do, so it is important to identify
what is most important to you.  For example, if seeing the Galapagos penguins are of the utmost importance to you, you need to find a cruise or an option/itinerary that includes Isabela Island.

***Note, if seeing specific animal species are your top priority, you can pick your cruise or itinerary based on this. Or, if you prioritize exercise like walking on the beach or snorkeling, make sure to carefully read the descriptions of each day in your itinerary to make sure that it is included. 

3.    Appreciate.  This truly is a once in a lifetime experience and my best advice is to gently remind yourself
to take it all in.  On North Seymour Island, take a moment and watch those baby sea lions play in the natural pools by the ocean.  Giggle when you see them flop towards you and take your time with that photo.  Order that specialty cocktail that is made with herbs only found on the island!  Those moments, those landscapes, and those animals are deserved of appreciation.
 
4.    Take it easy.  No matter what time of year you go to the Galapagos it is always HOT.  Remember to pack
sunscreen, aloe, long sleeve clothes and reusable water bottles.  Even if the days are not strenuous, every day is an adventure day under the sun.  This means filling up your water bottle at your hotel or on your cruise ship every day before you go out is crucial for your health and enjoyment.  Also, when you are out on the islands, the cactus trees only provide shade for the small animals, thus, the need for sun protection items.
 
5.    Schedule a non-scheduled day: After all those days of adventure, some pool time or a walk into Santa Cruz  town adds a nice relaxing element to the trip.  We thoroughly enjoyed our day by the pool at Finch Bay Hotel (on Santa Cruz Island).  Additionally, you instantly feel relaxed and then rejuvenated by the town’s great energy with streets lined with local and modern restaurants and beautiful hand-crafted, artisan shops.

There you have it, the guide to experiencing The Galapagos Islands EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME.  In order to fully experience the wonder and beauty of the islands you will first choose how to travel it and then pick the best itinerary based on your top priorities.  When you have made these decisions, you are ready to fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy every moment of it.  As you are enjoying remember to remind yourself to take it easy, take a rest day and lay back to play back that eye to eye moment with your pal, the 112 year old tortoise. 

Cheers to making your travel dreams a reality,

- Morgan Johns