10 Reasons Why You Should Visit The Galapogos Islands Right Now
If you want to travel somewhere brimming with beautiful sights to see, tropical weather, and fun activities, then you should consider the Galapogos Islands. In fact, here are 10 reasons why this is a must-visit destination for those who love to travel.
You might be reading this because of genuine curiosity about the Galapagos Islands. You also might be considering a trip but aren’t sure if it’s somewhere you should go.
The Galapagos are located about 620 miles off of the coast of Equador and are made up of 13 major islands. There are also 6 smaller islands and countless islets. This area is known for its scenery and wildlife and is one of the most protected places on Earth.
If that bit of information doesn’t convince you, we have 10 other reasons to plan your trip now! Read on for more information!
Learn More Than a Classroom Can Teach
Visiting a place like the Galapagos Islands isn’t much like anything else you’ll experience. You may have read books on evolution or studied animals and marine life, but there is no replacing seeing it firsthand.
You will be able to see animals in their natural habitat while your guide points out features that are evolving. The Islands require one naturalist tour for every 15 people, so you are guaranteed to hear every bit of information.
One of The First UNESCO World Heritage Sites
These islands were among the first natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites listed in 1978. The other first-chosen natural sites include Yellowstone National Park (US,) Simien National Park (Ethiopia,) and Nahanni National Park Reserve (Canada.)
The choice to make these islands a World Heritage Site was made partially because of the Islands’ location. The Galapagos is at the intersection of three ocean currents and three tectonic plates.
The meeting of three ocean currents makes for a diverse marine life and ecosystem while the merging of tectonic plates is directly related to the beautiful landscape.
Vacationing in the Galapagos Islands is a High-Value Trip
Taking a trip to the Galapagos Islands is by no means cheap. However, a trip to these islands can be considered high-value due to the fact the experience can’t be replicated… anywhere in the world.
You’ll receive personalized attention from your guide. Then you’ll receive personalized attention from the wildlife (or at least be able to get closer than in any zoo.)
Aside from these two factors, whether you cruise the islands or stay on one and hop around, you’ll witness animals and scenery that no one from home will comprehend.
Pro tip: consider a cruise, they might be a bit more expensive but everything is taken care of. Discover more here.
Fantastic Photos to Make Friends Jealous
Whether you share photos on social media or at dinner parties, the pictures from your trip are going to make your friends insanely jealous.
Regardless of who you’re sharing with, the photos can become personalized art in your home or a reminder of simple serenity.
If you happen to be a professional or a budding photographer, photos from the Galapagos will be a beautiful and distinctive addition to your portfolio.
Uniquely Relaxing
In today’s fast-paced world, everyone is connected to their cell phones and tablets. Wireless is no longer a luxury but a necessity, and you probably go home if you were on the way to the grocery store and realized you forgot your phone.
While you can absolutely purchase a wireless package if you choose to cruise, and cell phone use is allowed on the islands, you can opt out. The wireless package is not mandatory and the service on the islands is spotty, at best.
This means you will be able to truly focus on and enjoy your trip without being stressed with emails, texts, work calls, or anything else. You are free to enjoy the beauty around you.
Untouched Beaches
If you don’t consider yourself a “beachgoer,” you may change your mind. The beaches on these islands have white sugar sand and bright blue water.
You may be familiar with Florida beaches–and they are beautiful–but the Galapagos Islands’ beaches are natural. No imported sand, no resorts, few people, and no trash.
There is a high chance you’ll end up sharing the beach with multiple species of wildlife though. These animals are not afraid of humans and can be quite curious. Just don’t make the mistake of assuming they are tame or domesticated.
Active Volcanoes
Of 21 emergent volcanoes, 13 are considered active and of those 13, 2 have erupted in 2018. One of the two that erupted in 2018 did so on June 27!
Basically, this means that you have the chance to see nature’s fireworks and probably some magma. Your guide will limit how close you can get for safety reasons, but you’ll definitely be able to take some amazing photos.
The Site of Darwin’s Well-Known Studies
Charles Darwin considered the Father of Evolution, wrote many books on evolution and the theories thereof. His most famous book was based on the animals he witnessed when visiting the islands.
You may know it as, “On the Origin of Species.” It came about years after his adventures in South America but has information from his observations while in the Galapagos.
Other than his many books, Darwin is also famous for his finches, which you can still see while there. These subspecies of birds were all noted for their beaks and the functionality of them.
World-Class Diving
If all the classroom-style science doesn’t interest you and you’d much prefer to take to the water, you’re in luck.
The Galapagos Islands offers world-class diving. Be sure you’re prepared though, it can become challenging because of strong currents.
Aside from currents, you’ll encounter amazing marine life and maybe conquer your fear of sharks. As mentioned earlier, animals aren’t afraid of humans, and this goes for the aquatic ones, too.
If you’d prefer not to dive, you can always go kayaking or snorkeling from the pristine beaches.
Fancy Foods
Foodies rejoice! Because of the diverse nature of the islands, there are many options for ingredients.
You will be able to taste the freshest and most unique meals you can imagine, and it won’t be in some fancy restaurant. Food might not be the number one reason you visit these islands, but it will be one of the reasons you don’t want to leave.
Final Thoughts
Traveling abroad is something special and an experience to never take for granted. Going to populated areas opens your eyes and worldview to other cultures.
However, choosing to explore a remote location like the Galapagos Islands, is life-changing. Seeing the basics of life on Earth is unexplainable until you experience it.
If you’re looking for other places to explore, told by people who have experienced them, check out our World Travel!