Enthralling Galapagos Cruises

The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands located about 965 kilometers off the west coast mainland of Ecuador. These fascinating islands have a multitude of unusual endemic species, many of which were the basis for Darwin’s famous theory of evolution. The Galapagos Islands, which are included in Ecuador’s national park system, have become a tourist destination for travelers who want to experience something completely out of the ordinary.

An increasingly popular way of exploring this archipelago of islands is by means of one of the many Galapagos cruises available. There are tour packages available to suit everyone, from the most basic necessities to absolute luxury. One of the most important aspects of organizing a tour is deciding which islands to visit. The flora and fauna of each island are intriguingly different. Also, the time of the year will have an effect on what is available to see, although there is always something happening in wildlife circles throughout the year, whether it be nesting, mating or hatching. Some species are only in the area for part of the year, such as whales which can be spotted between June and September. Tours can be tailored to suit the interest of visitors and qualified guides are available to assist in making a wise choice. There are three categories of naturalist guides and they all need to pass courses set by the Galapagos National Park authorities in order to qualify to guide tourists.

Land visits incorporated into Galapagos cruises usually last between two to three hours, depending on the terrain of the island. In an effort to protect the unique nature of the park, visitors are obliged to remain within clearly identified visiting points and trails. This is sometimes mistakenly viewed as restrictive, but it is the best way to preserve the area and trails have been carefully designed to exhibit the very best features of each island.

The Galapagos Islands have areas that can be explored by means of snorkeling or diving. There are an abundance of underwater creatures as well as unusual rock formations to be discovered, adding to the attraction of these amazing volcanic islands. There are also defined areas for kayaking and many take advantage of this fun activity to explore areas that can’t otherwise be reached. However, to avoid any disturbance of these areas, the rule is that kayaks may not touch land.

The Galapagos Islands with their remarkable animal life and ancient geological history are often the subject of television documentaries. If you are looking for an unforgettable travel experience, why not travel to Ecuador and take a Galapagos cruise to explore these incredible islands yourself.