Travel Guide to the Galapagos Islands

The numerous islands that make up the Galapagos Islands can be found in the eastern Pacific Ocean, and I’m sharing everything you need to know in this travel guide. They are an amazing destination for family vacations or couple getaways. You can easily spend most of your time on a single island. Or you can explore multiple areas during an island-hopping adventure. The choice is yours and I invite you to read through this travel guide to the Galapagos Islands. As your travel advisor, I can easily plan everything you want to do and throw in a few extra activities you may not have been aware of. You simply need to enjoy your time on the islands and make memories with those you love.

History of the Galapagos Islands

To begin this travel guide, I wanted to start with the history of the Galapagos. The Galapagos Islands were discovered back in 1535. Dominican friar, Fray Tomas de Berlanga, arrived on the islands at this time. He had basically set out from Panama in hopes of reaching Peru. He missed his original destination but wasn’t disappointed by the beauty he discovered.

Pirates and hunters were the primary inhabitants until Ecuador claimed the islands as its own in 1832. The Galapagos Islands became even more popular once Charles Darwin visited to check out the flora and fauna in 1835.

Weather in the Galapagos Islands

There are not four seasons in the Galapagos Islands. These islands only have two seasons. Those seasons are the wet season and the dry season.

The wet season is normally between the months of December and May. Despite being rainy, the precipitation normally arrives quickly and then leaves within a short period of time.

The dry season is the rest of the year. It really isn’t completely dry during this season, though. Light rains are common during this season. In fact, it is common for the Galapagos Islands to see even more rain during the dry season than in the wet season.

The temperatures in the Galapagos Islands are pretty consistent year-round. The average temperature is 75 degrees. It is slightly cooler during the dry season and warmer during the wet season.

Best Time to Visit the Galapagos Islands

The best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is between the months of December and May. The sun is always shining during those months. At least in between the quick rainstorms. Plus, the temperatures are a little warmer, and there is less wind.

What to Pack for a Family Vacation in the Galapagos Islands

You will want to pack shorts, t-shirts, and bathing suits for a family vacation in the Galapagos Islands. A pair of pants, a raincoat, sneakers, and flip-flops will also come in handy. Women will want sundresses too.

Basically, think about packing clothing for warm weather with a little rain. If you are staying in the higher elevations, then slightly warmer clothing may be necessary.

Best Activities for a Family Vacation in the Galapagos Islands

Do you love to stay busy when you take family vacations? Well, if you do, the Galapagos Islands are the perfect destination!

Getting up close to marine life is simple when you are on vacation in the Galapagos Islands. You can head out for a swim or do a little snorkeling. However, my favorite activity in the Galapagos Islands is scuba diving.

If you don’t want to be physically in the water, I recommend going sea kayaking. You can still check out the marine life. You’ll just be in a kayak while doing it!

Relaxing on one of the many beaches can be fun. But taking your family out on a hiking adventure is even better. You can all make memories as you explore unique lava rock trails. One of those trails will lead you to the top of Sierra Negra.

Other incredible activities to do during a family vacation in the Galapagos Islands include:

• Surfing
• Horseback riding
• Mountain biking
• Dinghy rides
• Boat tours
• Stargazing

Top Places to See During Your Family Vacation in the Galapagos Islands

Since the Galapagos Islands are, well, islands, you may think there is not too many attractions to check out. That couldn’t be further from the truth! There are so many places to see during a family vacation in the Galapagos Islands.

The very first place on your list should be the Charles Darwin Research Station. This attraction can be found over on Santa Cruz Island. This is an excellent place to learn about this history of the islands, as well as the flora and fauna. Outside in the gardens, you will have the chance to see a few of the giant Galapagos tortoises.

Hiking to the Wall of Tears on the island of Isabela is always a must. The trail is mostly flat. This makes the hike possible for almost everyone. Before you reach the Wall of Tears, you will pass by lakes and mangroves. The Wall of Tears was made from lava rocks and still stands unfinished at the end of the trail.

Another fascinating place on the island of Isabela is Los Tuneles. These are the volcanic tunnels on the island. Walking through them will be an experience you will never forget.

Other places to see while on a family vacation in the Galapagos Islands include:

• Tortuga Bay
• Punta Cormorant
• Rancho Primicias Galapagos Tortoise Ranch
• Tagus Cove
• Interpretation Center of San Cristobel
• Pinnacle Rock
• Albemarle Point
• Maprae Museum

Best Foods to Try in the Galapagos Islands

Despite being out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, you won’t need to worry about finding delicious foods to eat. All the islands are known for their culinary delights. Most dishes will contain an abundance of fresh seafood. Although, meat and potato dishes are easy to find too.

A few of the best foods to try in the Galapagos Islands include:

• Langostino Encocado – This is lobster cooked in a coconut. The coconut milk, peppers, garlic, onions, orange, lime, and ginger create quite a flavorful dish.
• Arroz Marinero – This is seafood rice, and it is considered one of the most popular dishes on the islands.
• Canchalagua Ceviche – This ceviche is made from the canchalagua mollusk. You will mostly find it on the island of San Cristobel.
• Sopa Marinera – This seafood soup has a creamy peanutty taste that includes lots of vegetables.
• Seco – This is one of the dishes you will want to order if you do not want seafood. You can choose to have it made with chicken, lamb, beef, or goat.
• Bolon de Verde – This is a popular breakfast dumpling. They are made by mixing meat and cheese together and putting it inside mashed plantains.

Tips for Visiting the Galapagos Islands

There are a few tips in this travel guide you must be aware of when planning a visit to the Galapagos Islands.

• You must have your vacation in the Galapagos Islands booked in advance. Only a certain amount of people are allowed on the islands at a time. Therefore, booking ahead is the only way you are guaranteed to be able to visit when you want.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – This will allow you to drink lots of water without creating a lot of waste.
• Stay at least 2 meters from all wildlife you encounter on the islands.
• The sun is strong in the Galapagos Islands. Always wear sunscreen and a hat.
• Internet access is limited. Be prepared for limited access during your visit.

This is a lot of what you should know prior to planning a family vacation in the Galapagos Islands. There are other things as well, but I can share them with you while I plan your incredible vacation.

So, are you ready to begin planning a family vacation in the Galapagos Islands with my travel guide?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

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