Galapagos Islands Holidays
Off the coast of Ecuador, a tour of the Galapagos Islands is the highlight of many Latin America tours. The best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is from December to March. This is when the weather is at its warmest and the sea is calm, which also makes it the best time for diving and snorkelling.
The Galapagos Islands form a unique eco-system and a Galapagos holiday will offer close encounters with some of the world's most spectacular wildlife on land and water.
A Galapagos Island tour around the archipelago will bring you literally face-to-face with iguanas, penguins, blue-footed boobies, flamingos and giant tortoises. And in the waters you will find marine iguanas, hammer head sharks, whale sharks, manta rays and sea lions... the list is endless. The islands were never connected to the mainland, so the wildlife that evolved here was never hunted by man and have not developed an instinctive fear of humans. Charles Darwin formulated his theory of evolution following close study of the fauna he found here.
Take a Galapagos Island tour by cruise ship, travelling between the islands at night and heading ashore every day for wildlife encounters with expert naturalist guides either on land or in the water. Alternatively, or in addition to a cruise, your Galapagos holiday can be based on land in one of the hotels, simple lodges or tented camps on some of the larger islands such as Santa Cruz or Isabela. You can explore the islands in more detail on a land-based trip either on foot or on horse-back, as well as being able to enjoy a diversity of other activities such as mountain-biking, diving, kayaking and surfing not usually offered on Galapagos cruises.
For a personalised itinerary for your perfect Galapagos holiday, contact our Latin America specialists who can discuss Galapagos cruises and land-based Galapagos tours with you.
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The holiday options below are designed to give you inspiration and ideas. Call us for a tailor-made quote to fit your specific dates, duration, room type, board basis, flight upgrades and any other requirements that you may have.
An island that inspired Charles Darwin, the Galapagos is the epitome of beauty for those with the adventure to discover new possibilities. The multitude of animals and enduring presence of nature make any visit one to remember. There are wide arrays of wildlife including birds and reptiles. The island is also home to several endangered species including the Galapagos tortoise.
Seafood is the main cuisine on the island. From fish to Lobster and sea cucumber, the plates of the island are one with the nearby waters. In the highlands meat, potatoes, grains, and vegetables are most common, while in the lowlands locals prefer shrimp and yuca.
The Galapagos are host to great nightlife and entertainment. Whether you are in search of dancing, ballet, nightclubs, or art exhibits, there are activities to satisfy every interest.
It is not necessary to obtain a visa for entry onto the Islands. A valid passport is required and proof of return ticket is suggested.
The electric current of the Galapagos Islands is 110-120 Volts as used in North America. It is advised to check with your hotel prior to arrival to ensure whether or not you will require an adapter or transformer.
The Galapagos is considered one of the safest in the Andean region. As with any region, take caution when in the midst of large crowds and remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
There are no compulsory vaccines required to enter the islands, although there are precautions against malaria and yellow fever.
The flying time from the UK to the Galapagos Islands is 13 hours.
The official language of the islands is Spanish.
The time difference is GMT -7 hours
Ecuadorians are very outgoing and friendly so when entering shops or restaurants it is acceptable to greet staff. Most traditions are linked to religion and there are celebrations in honour of particular catholic saints every month. Town parades take place and both women and men wear colourful attire as they dance under firework presentations.
Select different types of holidays in Galapagos Islands below.
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Amanda SweeneyStanding and staring at the blissfully unaware sea lions and giant turtles in such close proximity, feels like you have just been transported to another world.
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