Tips For Planning Your Perfect Galapagos Islands Vacation
Published Monday, October 11th 2021
Visiting the Galapagos Islands is a vacation of a lifetime and an experience you'll never forget. But where should you go? Will you go on a sailing yacht or a small ship? And what time of year?
Here are tips for planning your perfect Galapagos Islands vacation.
TIME OF YEAR
The Galapagos Islands are near the equator, so the climate doesn't vary considerably. It a year-round destination with temperatures from the 80's to 90's during the day and high 60's in the evening. However, you will see different animals and behaviors at certain times of the year.
In January, you may see green sea turtles laying their eggs. February, March, and April bring spring flowers and breeding season. Look for the blue-footed boobies performing their curious courtship dance. Sea turtles and giant tortoises hatch in April and May while male frigate birds puff out their scarlet chest pouches to attract a mate.
In June, you may spot dolphins around Isabela and Fernandina, and humpback whales migrate through the islands. So June is the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands if you want to do some whale-watching. From August onward, sea lions give birth to cute, big-eyed pups. In December, the graceful waved albatrosses leave Española and do not return until March.
CRUISE OPTIONS
The smallest ships are chartered yachts or sailboats for 12-20 passengers. The mid-ships are generally luxury yachts with 30-48 passengers, and the larger ships have 60-100 passengers.
The small vessels are the most active, intimate, and flexible. Fewer passengers allow for more shore time. However, the smaller ships have smaller cabins, smaller bathrooms, and less public space.
ITINERARIES
This is where you carefully consider what you want to experience.
Each island offers different landscapes, activities, and wildlife. Landscapes vary from desert-like with cacti to barren and volcanic. Some islands are best for snorkeling or scuba diving, while others are better for hiking or observing various birdlife.
Most visitors want to see the Galapagos Island's most iconic wildlife - the giant tortoises, marine and land iguanas, the blue-footed booby, and seal pups. While seeing certain species isn't guaranteed, be sure the itinerary you choose visits the islands where you will have the highest chance to experience the wildlife of your choice.
The Galapagos Islands are a popular destination, especially for travelers who are looking for the ultimate adventure. The number of visitors and ships is limited, so availability is often sold out in advance. Planning early planning is necessary.
Are you ready to plan the perfect Galapagos Islands vacation?
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