People of all ages who have a serious taste for nature, adventure and outdoor excursions might consider a trip to the Galapagos Islands. Located in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of South America, the Galapagos Islands are one area of the world that has remained virtually untouched by humans. There are 13 major islands and only 5 are inhabited. They boast amazing wildlife, incredible views, diverse landscapes, and natural beauty. They are perhaps the most famous for the early visits by Charles Darwin eventually formed what we know to be the Theory of Evolution after being inspired by the indigenous wildlife.



If you are planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, there are many different ways to experience the islands. Various cruise packages range from luxury to economical price ranges and it depends on your travel budget. Travellers must first arrive in Ecuador by plane and be transported to the islands from Quito. Only one checked bag and one carry-on bag is allowed on the flight to the islands. Because the islands are so near to the equator, the majority of your clothing should be light and warm-weather appropriate. The climate in the islands is always pleasant so the weather is not necessarily a factor in choosing the best time to visit. However, the low season from April-May and September-October, can offer reduced rates and special deals because tourism is decreased during those times. If you plan on travelling during any other time period, note that cruise boats book far in advance and pre-planning is strongly recommended.

Depending on the tour company you choose to sail with, there will be many activities the whole family can engage in. Touring the island itself is an experience for everyone. There are many rare species, especially all of the lizards, living on the islands that cannot be seen anywhere else. There are 11 different species of giant tortoises, which is translates to galapago in Spanish. There is a large variety of birds to view and sea lions to observe; snorkelling spots to explore, volcanoes to discover, red sandy beaches to enjoy, and so much more to see and do in and around the islands.

Planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands will require a lot of research to find the right vacation package for your family. There are several websites that promote the cruise packages and information about travelling to the islands. Equally, if you run out of time and miss out on booking in advance there are also a number of websites like On The Beach who can fit you in last minute.