The Galapagos Islands, about 2 hours flight from Quito and Guayaquil, offer unparalleled and intimate interaction with the most exotic species of nature’s creation.

In 1835, Charles Darwin and his vessel, the HMS Beagle, landed on the shores of the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Darwin, an English naturalist, is perhaps best known for his controversial theory of evolution, a hypothesis about the development and existence of earth’s creatures including humans which he formulated heavily based on the work he conducted in the Ecuadorian archipelago. After detailed observations and research of the Galapagos’ diverse wildlife populations, particularly those of the tortoises, mockingbirds, and 13 tanager species now referred to as “Darwin’s finches,” he was able to concretely declare and note his findings, the majority of which continue to accurately hold true to this day.

Today’s visitors on a Galapagos cruise as part of their Ecuador trip or Peru vacation can follow Darwin’s steps although the exact path he took remains vague and inexact. More than 97% of the islands’ areas were declared protected national park lands by the Ecuadorian government in 1959, so much of it is as pristine as nature gets. Here are some of the main destinations on the string of islands that are sure to be highlights of your travel.

Lonesome George is the last tortoise species of his kind, although he and his friends could once be found all over Pinta Island.

Pinta Island (aka Abingdon Island)
This island is actually off limits except to the most credited of researchers, but its significance to the archipelago is undoubted. Lonesome George, the most iconic tortoise of the Galapagos, once lived here with his peers but due to the infestation of introduced goats, the tortoise populations on Pinta died out in 1972 because their food sources were challenged. With all the goats now gone, other tortoise species are now being brought back to the island. Lonesome George is the last of his kind and there have been difficulties trying to get him to breed with others. As such, he now lives at the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, established in 1964 to aid the efforts of the Charles Darwin Foundation.

Birdwatching throughout the Galapagos is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Genovesa Island (aka Tower Island)
With so many birds for watching, Genovesa Island is a nature lover’s boon. Visitors are permitted to set foot on its land, but the birds can also be easily seen from nearby waters. Red-footed boobies are a big attraction, as are various gulls, sea lions, fur seals, and peaceful sharks down below. The Galapagos Dove and short-eared owl are found only on this island and nowhere else in the world. As well, a number of “Darwin’s finches” can be spotted flitting about. Once docked, visitors can embark on a 750-meter trail that provides up close and personal opportunities to examine the animals up close.

How would you like to swim at Gardner Bay on Espanola Island alongside adorable sea lions such as this one?

Espanola Island
Espanola Island is the southernmost of the Galapagos Islands, and its removed location made it a premier spot for the rise of a number of endemic species. For example, marine iguanas are unique to the Galapagos as they are, but the ones on Espanola actually change color with the breeding season! Another delight is the Hood Mockingbird which has developed no fear of man and often approaches unsuspecting travelers. Gardner Bay is a fantastic place to fit in a swim on your Galapagos vacation, and Punta Suarez is one of the major wildlife watching spots in the entire archipelago.

If you get inspired by the richness of the Galapagos and wish to help with conservation efforts, there are a number of foundations to look into. However, be sure that the organizations are official and trusted before committing to a program!

In 2009, Nellie and her husband backpacked around Latin America with only the wind to their backs. They spent approximately 4 months traveling in South America, from Buenos Aires, Argentina, all the way to Ecuador before crossing over to Central America, during which Nellie absolutely fell in love with everything nature had to offer south of the equator.

Here’s what she had to tell us about how the unparalleled charisma of South America helped her discover nature’s consistent ability to surprise and delight even the hardiest city girl.

With such chose proximity between towns and nature like in Baño in Ecuador, South America is truly a beauty lover's heaven.

1. You have traveled extensively around the world. What are some things that differentiated your travel experiences in South America from your visits to other countries or continents?
The main element that differentiates my travels in South America to other places I visited is its raw wilderness. There might be places like Australia or Madagascar that offer such unspoiled nature, but in South America, you feel an extreme immensity of such wilderness. Mountains and fields run for miles without a single human or construction in sight. Here, you feel like a tiny being in a large, massive world.

2. Did you spend any time staying put and living in any South American location?
As I wanted to explore as much as I could of South America, I didn’t really spend too much time living in each location. I did, however, take a guidebook writing course in Antigua, Guatemala, and was selected to work on the guidebook, so I spent a few weeks there researching and working on it after the course.

3. You seem to enjoy photographing nature. What is one top South American destination you would suggest to a traveler who wants to see unbelievable natural beauty?
True, I’m a big fan of nature and wildlife—they are the elements I look for when I travel. Growing up in a big city, I’d always been used to lifeless concrete and urban rushes. When I started exploring the world, I fell in love with the bounty of nature in the world and since then, I’ve always been attracted to places that offer plenty of natural landscapes. For travelers seeking raw, untouched natural beauty, the South American destination I’d recommend would be Bolivia. Its massive and sparse areas of unexplored terrain are mind-blowing even to the most hardened travelers. A jeep tour through the Andean Nature Reserve to the Salar de Uyuni brings you close to spectacular mountainscapes and out-of-this-world lagoons and plains. I’ve never seen anything like that elsewhere—Bolivia truly is one of a kind.

The salt lake of Uyuni is the largest in the world and one of the most impressive natural wonders to be experienced in South America.

4. Of the countries you’ve been in South America—Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Argentina—which would you return to first if given the chance, and why?
Ecuador. It’s a country that’s relatively small but packed with so much diversity. In Ecuador alone, you can surf on golden beaches, climb snow-peaked mountains, experience culture in quaint villages, and come face-to-face with unique wildlife. Personally, the Galapagos is my favorite place in the world—nowhere else offers such unique, endemic animals that are completely fearless of humans and are as equally curious about us as we are of them. I definitely want to return someday and hope to get the same touching experience with the wildlife as I did previously.

5. What tips do you have for someone who is anxious about traveling to an exotic country for the first time?
Don’t let your fear get in your way. It’s natural to be anxious, but once you’re there, you’ll find that there’s nothing to be afraid of, and if you have enough faith in yourself, you’ll know that you can do it.

Although he is as worldly and well-traveled as they come, the last time Gary spent time in South America was in 2005 during a trip to Argentina. It wasn’t until last week in early October that he returned to this bottom half of the western hemisphere for a quick bout in exploring Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Read more of what he had to say, now smarter with his global experiences, about his latest romp in South America.

The Galapagos Islands of Ecuador harbor some of the most diverse range of wildlife and endemic species than anywhere else on earth.

1. What were you most excited to see and experience in Ecuador, since this was your first time back in South America since your visit to Argentina in 2005? Any apprehensions?

Not really. If anything, having spent time this year in Spain, Puerto Rico, and Mexico, I am much more confident with my Spanish than I was back in 2005. I looked forward to the Galapagos Islands which are one of those places you always hear about. It met all my expectations and I was able to see almost all of the wildlife I was hoping to see.

2. How are some ways you prepared for your trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos?

I don’t really do anything special to prepare for trips. The only exception might be if there is extreme cold that I will have to deal with. Other than that, what I do for one country is similar to what I do for any other country.

3. Did you expect that traveling in South America will be different than in other parts of the world that you’ve been?

As a region, not really. The poorer parts of South America seem on a par with parts of South East Asia. The one thing which makes it easier to travel here is that you only have to really deal with 2 languages (5 if you include Suriname, Guyana, and French Guyana, I guess). I think South America is a much safer place than it was 20 years ago. Not many rebel groups anymore, no military juntas, and better infrastructure.

The colonial style of the Quito historic downtown makes it a classic and worthy stop on your Ecuador vacation.

4. You have many experiences in some of the more unconventional countries in the world. What tips do you have for those who are nervous or anxious about traveling to an exotic part of the world?

People are afraid of what they don’t know. If they think through it, they will realize that millions upon millions of people are living their lives every day in the very places they are afraid to go. There are thousands of tourists who go every year, and there really shouldn’t be anything to worry about if you keep your wits about you.

5. What are some things that short-term vacationers and travelers can do to ensure community-friendly and sustainable tourism?

Avoid any large brand names. If you stay in big hotels or resorts, the money is going to leave the country. If you stay in small hotels or guesthouses, the money stays with the people who run it. The same is true with restaurants. If you follow this advice, not only do you help the local economy more, you will also save a ton of money in the process.

Patagonia

Chile, Patagonia

Big. Cold. Majestic. It is difficult to describe, or understand, the mass wilderness of Patagonia without stepping foot on its tough tundra for yourself. This 260,000-square-mile region is split between Chile and Argentina, and each half has something special to offer. Trek-loving travelers will enjoy a trip to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world, or hiking across massive glaciers, such as the world famous Perito Moreno, in El Calafate, also in Argentina. For more Patagonian thrills, hop over the border to Chile to explore the Patagonia archipelago. This side is full of icy islands separated by sparklingly blue fjords. The reflections that bounce between the turquoise waters and the pearly, imposing glacier walls make you feel like you’re sailing inside a diamond. A trip to Torres del Paine, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, or a tour of Puerto Varas in the Lake District, are two great Chileans options.

The Amazon

Rainforests are home to 50% of the world’s wildlife, but only cover 2% of the earth’s surface. You don’t have to be a mathematician to realize this means rainforests tend to be packed with wildlife—in fact, 15% of our planet’s animals live in the Amazon. In Peru, the Amazon rainforest sprawls across 60% of the country’s landmass and houses an incredible array of creatures, from pink river dolphins to colorful macaws.

You can visit parts of the Amazon from Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and several other Latin American countries, but we’re partial to the Peruvian Amazon, particularly Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado.

Iquitos is a jungle settlement hidden away in the northern Peruvian rainforest, along the massive Amazon River. It is the largest mainland city in the world that can only be reached by air or boat. The main river and its numerous tributaries make Iquitos a great launching point for an Amazon cruise. And because waterways are the easiest way to navigate through the jungle, river cruises can take you to hidden indigenous villages, well-positioned jungle lodges, and virgin forests virtually untouched by man.

Another great Amazon vacation option is Puerto Maldonado, a frontier town in southeastern Peru. From this town, you can take a boat up the river to the famous Tambopata National Reserve, renowned for its large animal wildlife, including caimans and capybaras. This reserve is over 31,000-square miles and is home to numerous bird species—you are practically guaranteed to see several pairs of squawking macaws fly by overhead.

The Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Island penguin.

Six hundred miles off the Ecuadorian coastline, a group of over 40 islands and islets await the animal-loving tourist. The Galapagos Islands are known for their spectacular and fearless wildlife. The ability of visitors to see these animals up close in their natural habitats is the highlight of a Galapagos vacation. Isolation from the outside world has created unique traits in many of the Galapagos species, including large size and an indifference toward humans. Massive tortoises and iguanas abound, and bird lovers will be charmed by the numerous avian species, including the blue footed booby, waved albatross, and several types of penguins.

Don’t be a fool and contact one of our expert travel advisors now to start planning your amazing Latin America vacation.

One of the many marine inhabitants at the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

While planning your Galapagos Islands vacation, bear in mind the following important considerations.

Types of Trips:

Over 900 kilometers west from the Ecuadorian coast, reaching the Galapagos Islands usually involves a 2.5 hour flight from Quito. There are two kinds of Galapagos Islands tours, a land-based tour based on one of the islands or a Galapagos Islands cruise. Both types of trips should be reserved in advance with a quality and recommended provider of vacation packages.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of tours. A Galapagos Islands cruise boasts the obvious allure of a sailing voyage, plus high standards of comfort and quality as well as the benefit of arriving each morning at a new destination within the islands. You’ll also enjoy fine on-board cuisine as well as a guide joining you for the whole journey.

On the other hand, a land-based trip will be less expensive, but you’ll spend much less time on the islands and longer making the journey from your hotel to each excursion.

Environmental Considerations:

Given the Galapagos Islands’ extreme vulnerability, they are among the most environmentally conserved places on Earth with the authorities trying hard to protect the delicate environment and preserve it from the constant stream of visitors. To support this work, tourists are required to contribute a $100 fee to enter the national park, which can be included in your vacation price by your operator.

During your visit you will be asked to comply with a number of environmental regulations including not interfering, handling or feeding the animals, damaging the native flora species or leaving any trash behind. Smoking is also forbidden in a number of protected areas. These restrictions are closely enforced in order to preserve the Galapagos Islands’ environment as well as the future of the islands’ many inhabitants.

Exotic bird life on the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

When to Visit:

The Galapagos Islands undergo significant seasonal changes in the weather, with a warm summer running from December until May and a cooler winter beginning in June to November. The weather is much milder during the winter, but with a higher chance of rain and fog, while the summer can get very hot.

What to Take:

Bring clothes suitable for hiking and exploring the islands and some good quality walking boots or shoes that will survive the volcanic landscapes. It will get cold at night, even in the summer, so bring some warm clothes and a raincoat just in case.

The seas around the islands can get rough, so sea sickness medication is advisable, especially for youngsters. Also, you’ll be very close to the equator and the sun shines very strongly, even if the weather is cloudy. You’ll need lots of sun protection, a hat and long-sleeves during the strongest, midday hours.

Last but not least, you’re visiting one of the biggest and most spectacular natural environments in the world, so don’t forget your camera with lots of spare film and memory cards!

Cruises arriving at the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

This is a place where sea lions show off their swimming skills and blue-footed boobies perform their elegant two-step mating dance as if oblivious to your presence. The islands’ absolute isolation and lack of human contact mean the inquisitive animals have never learned to fear people and will approach their visitors, happily posing for photographs.

Like most visitors enjoying Galapagos Islands vacations, I flew to the Islands from Quito, a 2.5 hour flight out over the Pacific Ocean. The islands’ natural richness presents itself immediately, with iguanas sunbathing beside the landing strip and sea lions gazing impassively from the nearby beach.

From the airstrip we embarked a dingy that took us to our cruise liner, the Galapagos Legend. This 100 passenger vessel offers a luxurious introduction to the Galapagos Islands. Every day the cruise liner visits two islands and offers passengers guided visits of the island’s exotic flora and fauna. Our group, given the name “Iguanas,” disembarked at North Seymour Island, a very dry ecosystem, and here we observed multitudes of birds such as the blue footed booby and frigate, sea lions and iguanas. Here visitors will also find the endemic species of the fragrant, incense-like palo santo – or holy stick.

The deluxe class cruise ship, the Galapagos Legend, the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Photograph: Nicola Kopp 2009

Back on board we enjoyed a few bottles of champagne that had been thoughtfully added to our room fridges, and had a great party in the pool and outdoor bar, dancing to the sound of salsa and meringue under the clear, star-studded night sky.

The following morning, and after a full, healthy breakfast, we disembarked at Dragon Hill at Santa Cruz Island, and saw giant cacti rivaled in size by huge iguanas. Just as our guide told us, where there are giant plants on the islands, you will find giant animals too. Colossal tortoises live in the upper highlands of this island, but we didn’t get a chance to visit them.

After lunch, we had some down time to relax by the ship pool and enjoy the onboard facilities. It’s impossible to get bored on a cruise liner when there were so many things to do! There was even a library on board, well stocked with books on Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

That afternoon we listened to an interesting lecture about Floreana Island and its natural history. When you disembark here you are first struck by the beauty of the gorgeous white sandy beaches and elegant flamingos walking around in their natural habitat. We thoroughly enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of swimming and snorkeling with the playful sea lions in the clear blue-green waters.

After an excellent barbecue dinner back on the boat, we found ourselves congregating again at our favorite spot between bar and the pool. Dancing beneath a brilliant sky of stars in the Galapagos Islands – a recipe for lifelong memories!

The next day we visited the Galapagos’ oldest island: Espanola. Here you can observe the majestic albatross – although keep in mind that these birds migrate from December to April, and therefore can not be found in the Galapagos during that time. If you are lucky you might witness a mating ceremony, characterized by the birds’ odd beak movements.

Another stunning site is the soplador, a large blowhole caused by waves flowing beneath the coral, which creates a rainbow in front of you every time water shoots through it.

Alongside the albatross are the Nazca birds, crabs, sea lions, and vast numbers of marine iguanas sunning themselves

Just one of many marine birds on the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Photograph: Nicola Kopp 2009

on the rocks, all within the picturesque setting of deep blue coastline.

In the afternoon we landed on San Cristobal Island, one of the 5 inhabited islands in the Galapagos archipelago, where we hiked across the island in order to visit the Galapaguera, the tortoise breeding center. Here passengers can learn about the National Park’s giant tortoise breeding program, and if you are lucky you might even see a few.

Back at the ship we all got together for a farewell drink and watched a video summary of what we had seen and learned during our time; a helpful and entertaining way to recap all the different experiences we had had in such a relatively short time.

Most Galapagos Islands tours offer the chance to extend your stay with visits to the western islands, which I would wholeheartedly recommend for a comprehensive experience – the landscape and views in this area are said to be simply magnificent.

Unfortunately for us, we were leaving the Galapagos Islands early, but not before one final excursion in a dingy along the coast to say goodbye to a nearby raft of sea lions and sharks.

Back on the boat we were served snacks and fruit juice by the pool, danced our last dance and took our last photos to remember our new friends before our group was called to disembark, a lovely ending to the trip of a lifetime.