GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS: NATURE UNFILTERED
A prized volcanic ecosystem perched on the equator, isolated from everywhere, and safeguarded from development. This is the Galápagos Islands, a living laboratory of biodiversity and a UNESCO World Heritage site where giant tortoises roam the misty highlands, iguanas dive beneath the waves, penguins and sea lions dart playfully around snorkelers, and birds nest and breed in the open without regard to the human visitors gathering around to observe. The islands are ideal for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, adventure travelers, and curious learners of all ages!
BY LAND OR BY SEA?
To make the most of your visit to the Galápagos Islands, choose one of the yachts or small cruise ships licensed to work in these extremely sensitive areas. You will be able to easily reach the unpopulated islands and protected waters where wildlife proliferates. The number of boats and passengers is carefully regulated to ensure the lowest impact possible. The largest boats accommodate up to 100 passengers with one naturalist guide for every 16 guests. For an exceptional experience, choose a smaller vessel catering to fewer guests and offering a lower guest-to-guide ratio.
ecoventura: Boutique Luxury
My recent Galápagos Islands safari was on Theory, one of three 10-room yachts operated by Ecoventura, part of the legendary travel company Abercrombie & Kent and the only vessels in the Galápagos within the coveted ranks of Relais & Chateaux. To be admitted into this acclaimed association requires the highest standards of hospitality, cuisine, authenticity, and sustainability. In a sensitive environment like the Galápagos Islands, sustainability is paramount and members must demonstrate a deep, unwavering commitment to protecting local ecosystems, championing responsible gastronomy, and supporting the local communities that make each destination unique. This ensures guests experience both comfort and culture in a way that is meaningful, ethical, and closely connected to the destination.
Each day with Ecoventura we explored a new island and the surrounding waters. Naturalist guides led us hiking, tide pooling, swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking. Along the way, they shared their expertise in botany, geology, biology, and history providing context to what we were discovering each day. Ecoventura itineraries are designed for visitors who want to be off ship and actively exploring the destination. If you prefer a slower schedule with more time relaxing onboard, we would recommend a different operator. Matching clients to the right boat and itinerary is our specialty!
Casa Gangotena, Quito’s Old City
GETTING THERE
International travelers reach the Galápagos Islands by first flying into mainland Ecuador. Quito and Guayaquil are the major gateways with frequent connections from North America, Europe, and other regions. Quito is a charming colonial city in the Andes surrounded by volcanoes and sprinkled with wonderful historic architecture. I stayed in three hotels to understand what will best suit different clients. My favorite was the gorgeous Casa Gangotena, a Relais & Chateaux property in the heart of the Old City overlooking the main plaza. For travelers sensitive to altitude, Quito’s location at 8000 feet may pose temporary difficulties. For these travelers, flying in and out of Guayaquil, a port city with the closest airport to the islands, is the best choice. The Hotel del Parque, a Relais & Chateaux property beyond Guayaquil’s downtown core, is beautifully historic and offers an exceptional restaurant.
Ready for the next adventure? We handle the logistics and leave all the fun to you! Planning made simple, Travel made perfect.