Tour the galápagos Islands
Welcome to one of the most extraordinary corners of our planet a place so unique, even Charles Darwin called it a “little world within itself.” Floating some 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are more than just a travel destination, they’re a living, breathing showcase of nature’s most brilliant work. Here, 13 main islands and countless inlets create a mosaic of otherworldly landscapes, from sun-drenched beaches to ancient lava fields, all teeming with life found nowhere else on Earth. Think blue-footed boobies dancing for a mate, prehistoric-looking marine iguanas basking in the sun, and sea lions that might just join you for a swim.
On a Galápagos cruise, adventure begins the moment you step aboard. One day you’ll be snorkelling in crystal-clear waters over submerged volcanic craters, where kaleidoscopic fish shimmer past you and hammerhead sharks glide silently below. The next, you’re hiking across moon-like terrain or wandering along mangrove-fringed shores while curious penguins waddle at your feet. These islands are alive with surprises, playful dolphins riding your boat’s wake, giant tortoises lumbering through highland forests, and seabirds swooping overhead in an untamed aerial ballet.
Every moment here is a front-row seat to evolution in action. It’s immersive. It’s unforgettable. And it’s a journey that leaves you feeling like you’ve touched a piece of Earth’s original blueprint. If you’re looking to experience something truly wild, something that stirs the soul and sparks the imagination, the Galápagos is calling.
” Step one? Buy a camera.
And not just any camera, the kind you’d want to bring to a place where nature feels cinematic, and every single frame is a masterpiece.
That’s exactly what Karen did. Before our trip to the Galápagos, she picked up a camera for her birthday and signed up for a one-to-one photography class. Turns out, it wasn’t just the wildlife that was about to be captured, it was a whole new passion lit.
We travelled with Abercrombie & Kent, and trust us, the comfort was well worth it. This was no ordinary trip it was a seamless, soul-filling adventure through one of the most protected ecosystems on Earth.
Starting in Quito, we made our way to the Galápagos via Baltra, where strict environmental checks reminded us just how sacred this place is. From there, our journey became a slow, beautiful unraveling of landscapes, wildlife, and wonder.
Where We Stayed – and Why It Mattered
Royal Palm Hotel: Hidden in volcanic tunnels and surrounded by geological marvels. Peaceful, authentic, and a perfect soft landing.
Finch Bay Eco Hotel: Beachfront, off-grid, and whisper-quiet, ideal for kayaking, snorkelling, or just lounging poolside with a spritz in hand.
Elite Catamaran Cruise: Our luxury base for island hopping, think two wildlife excursions a day, wine and warm towels, and cinematic scenery all around.
Pikaia Lodge: Perched at 1,400 ft between forest mists and dry savanna, it’s home to wild giant tortoises and jaw-dropping views. The perfect finale.
We explored South Plaza, Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Española, Floreana, and more. From land and hybrid iguanas to sea lions, sharks, and rare birds, the sheer volume of wildlife was staggering.
We snorkelled in coves where the water was glass-clear, wandered across lava fields, and stood in Post Office Bay posting hand-written notes for strangers to deliver across the world (and yes, it still works).
At night, we left our balcony doors open on the yacht and watched Jurassic birds fly alongside us under the stars. You don’t forget that.
If you’re craving reconnection to nature, to your partner, or to something deeper, the Galápagos is more than a holiday.
Our guide was a quiet hero, always there, never intrusive. Every step felt sacred.
So yes, buy a camera.
But also, buy the ticket.
Because this place doesn’t just live up to the hype, it changes you.” ~ James & Karen
All the things you need to know
- January : See land birds building their nests and marine iguana displaying their bright colours. You’ll also be in with a chance of seeing sea turtle laying their eggs on shore.
- February : On Floreana Island and Santa Cruz, greater flamingo and marine iguana begin nesting. February is also breeding season for Bahama pintail duck.
- March : The rainfall is at its highest in March, with sporadic downpours taking place. Humidity is high and air temperatures begin to reach 30C.
- April – May : In May, blue-footed boobies display their courtship rituals while sea turtle and marine iguana hatch from their eggs.
- June – July : In July, sea bird communities become very active and lava lizard begin their mating season. Whale and dolphin species are most likely to be observed at this time, especially off the west coast of Isabela Island.
- August : August is pupping season for the islands’ sea lion population, and it’s also when giant tortoise return to the highlands.
- September : Sea lion become very active, with frequent fighting between males for mating rights. Dive beneath the waves to see torpedo-like Galápagos penguin hunting for small fish. September is the peak of the cold season, with air temperatures dropping to 19C.
- October : Lava heron begin nesting and blue-footed boobies raise their recently hatched chicks. This is mating season for fur sea lion, and you’ll also be in with a chance of seeing giant tortoise laying eggs. The cold season continues, with some low-lying fog possible. However, this tends to burn off throughout the morning.
- November – December : In December, giant tortoise eggs begin to hatch and green sea turtle put on their mating displays. The weather improves significantly in these months, with calm seas and excellent visibility for snorkellers.
- FERNANDINA : One of the Galápagos’ pristine islands, Fernandina is also the youngest and most westerly.
- ISABELA : The largest island in the area, Isabela covers more ground than all of the other islands together. This ensures it offers some of the most varied wildlife to be found in the region and so is an ideal starting point for any Galápagos foray.
- SANTIAGO : Conservation efforts on Santiago island have ensured that the wildlife here is varied and vibrant. From the marine iguana and Sally Lightfoot crab at Puerto Egas to the tropical fish circulating under the water, you are bound to see some outstanding sights.
- MARCHENA : This island is free from any human activity, meaning it is an idyllic home from some native species. To experience Marchena island, you will have to join an organised tour, usually for scuba diving to see the surrounding waters and fish.
- GENOVESA : Referred to frequently as the ‘bird island’, Genovesa is the best island visit for ornithologists. Its shores are resident to a large colony of red-footed booby and you will see up to 200,000 Galápagos storm petrel here.
- BALTRA (SOUTH SEYMOUR) : Not part of the national park, unlike the rest of the islands, Baltra’s history is more military. It is home to an Ecuadorian military base, an abandoned US air force base and the largest airport on the Galápagos.
- NORTH SEYMOUR : This island is all about the breeding colonies of birds – so expect some chicks and a ‘cuteness’ overload. As well as many photograph opportunities. The most vibrant and beautiful bird species live here including the frigate bird and the blue-footed booby.
- SANTA CRUZ : A highly populated island among this small archipelago, Santa Cruz is the area’s second largest island and home to wide array of life.
- FLOREANA : While many species of wildlife still thrive on Floreana, this island unfortunately has been negatively affected by human presence. After rats, goats and pigs were introduced, the native flora and fauna were destroyed and the island’s breed of tortoise suffered extinction.
- SANTA FE : Take a day trip here from Santa Cruz and experience some of the Galápagos’ best plant and wildlife. From deep within the Opuntia cactus forest, you’ll walk amongst the eponymous plant as well observe yellow warblers and the Galápagos dove, while spotting the lava lizard and Santa Fe land iguana darting through the undergrowth.
- SAN CRISTOBAL : Here you can head out into the crystal waters off Cerro Brujo where you may encounter sea lion, pelican and blue-footed booby. Diving down it’s possible to come face to face with shark, turtle, manta ray and shoals of tropical fish.
- ESPAÑOLA : A plethora of more birds can be seen at Punta Suarez where the swallowed-tail gull and Española mockingbird can be watched for hours on end.
- PINZON : Also referred to as Duncan island, Pinzon was the stopping point for the Pinta and Nina boats that were part of Columbus’s New World voyage. Careful planning is needed to come here as you will require a special permit and there are no visitor facilities to speak of.
Explore the Galápagos Islands in style. Step aboard the Evolve, a luxury yacht chartered exclusively for this adventure. This fantastic vessel accommodates up to 20 passengers, providing each with unparalleled comfort when cruising these fabled waters. The Al Fresco Area offers authentic Ecuadorian fine-dining experiences. Daily excursions take you to the different islands of the Galápagos, accompanied by an expert naturalist guide.
All excursions can be tailed to suit your interests, however some of the most popular options include a visit to San Cristobal island. This island is full of panoramic hiking trails over the volcanic landscape. This is probably the only site where the Galapagos’ three booby species can be seen together which include; Nazca, blue-footed and red-footed. Espanola Island is a great spot for watching sea lion and marine iguana. Meanwhile, at Kicker Rock you can enjoy astonishing snorkelling trips to observe manta ray, sea turtle and shark.
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We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.
