Galapagos Islands Cruises

The Galapagos Islands are in the Pacific Ocean, 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador on the equator, and also cooled by the Humboldt Current, which makes them suitable for both hot and cold weather flora and fauna. The islands were designated a National Park in 1959 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Numbers of visitors are limited, giving a sense of freedom and adventure as like-minded travellers can observe the wildlife, explore the wilderness of the islands and also take time to relax on golden beaches.

Most of the cruises operate nimble zodiac boats to take passengers to shore, with some offering kayaking trips to get even closer to the natural beauty and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.

Flora and Fauna

It is easy to see why the Galapagos Islands inspired Charles Darwin almost two centuries ago. The unique flora and fauna is captivating. There are 25 native reptile species, 19 of which are endemic, as well as 154 species of birds. The flora is no less impressive, with an incredible 1432 plant species which thrive in the desert-like conditions.

The wildlife varies by island and location. The Western Galapagos islands include Bartolomé and Fernandina. These islands are home to giant tortoises, flightless cormorants, sea lions and manta rays, to name but a few. The Northern and Central islands of the Galapagos archipelago include Rabida and Santa Cruz. Keep an eye out for red-footed, blue-footed and Nazca boobies, as well as marine iguanas and sea lions.

The Islands in More Depth

The most densely populated island of Santa Cruz is the home of the Charles Darwin Research Centre, where there is the opportunity to learn more about the preservation of this distinctive wildlife habitat. Travel up into the lush highlands to see lava tunnels, the Twin Craters and giant tortoises foraging for food.

Santiago island is home to land and marine iguanas that bask on the long, lava shoreline, and offers the chance to explore tide pools and meet Galapagos fur seals.

The famous Pinnacle Rock towers over the mangroves and golden sands of Bartolomé, where it is possible to snorkel with penguins and see white tipped reef sharks.

The largest of the islands, Isabela, boasts 5 active volcanoes as well as salt water lagoons full of flamingos, and a beautiful shoreline with dolphins, whales, sea turtles and the ocean sunfish – mola mola.

Fernandina is the youngest of the islands, a place to see evolution in action with the flightless cormorant. It is also a haven for the marine iguana, whilst Floreana island is snorkelling heaven, home to a large colony of sea lions.

Espanola island is a fabulous island of boobies, doves and mocking birds, and is the only nesting place of the waved albatross.