Going on vacation can help you alleviate stress and see new parts of the world. Learn why visiting the Galapagos Islands beaches is a great idea. Seven of the best things to do in the Galapagos and what makes them such a great idea. Find a list of reasons why you visit the Galapagos.
Did you know the Galapagos Islands were named after the giant tortoises that reside on the island? The word, “galapago”, is an old Spanish word for “saddle” which was what the early Spanish explorers thought the tortoises resembled. But giant tortoises won’t the only magnificent creatures you’ll see on the Galapagos Islands Beaches.
Read on to find out more about the Galapagos Islands and what makes it one of the most unique international travel destinations.
7 Reasons to Visit the Galapagos Islands Beaches
The Galapagos Islands is a series of volcanic islands west of Ecuador (20 islands, 42 islets). It is home to thousands of animal species, many of which can only be found there. The islands are also a UNESCO World Heritage site and a national park. It is heavily guarded and protected to preserve its biodiversity and only allows a certain number of visitors per year. If you ever get a chance to visit, here’s what you can expect:
1. Lie Down on the Cleanest Beaches in the World
As we’ve mentioned, the Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site which means it is heavily protected and still largely unaffected by human activities. In fact, only 3% of the islands are inhabited by humans, the rest is for wildlife. All visitors to the national park must also be accompanied by a licensed tour guide. One of the best places to visit would be Gardner Bay.
Due to its exclusiveness, all the nature you’ll see on the island is in its original form. There will be no trash on the beach, no beach houses on the side, and no other footprints in the sand except yours and maybe the penguins.
2. Enjoy Sub-Tropical Weather All Year Round
The Galapagos Islands are near the equator. However, due to the cold weather currents from the west and the south, temperatures rarely go above the 90s or below the 70s. The only two seasons they have are dry season and wet season but even during the wet season, humidity and rain remain relatively low.
This consistent and mild weather makes the islands a wonderful destination for you to visit all year round. You do not have to wait until a certain time to visit and the water is always just right for swimming.
3. See One-of-A-Kind Animals
Did you know giant tortoises can grow up to 550 pounds and 5 feet long? How would you like to see one in person? At the Galapagos Islands, you might just run into one!
The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most unique animals in the world. Many of them are also endemic, meaning they are native to the islands. The most famous ones are the giant tortoises, blue foot boobies, pink iguanas, and fur sea lions. You will feel like you walked into one of Dr. Seuss’s books.
But the best part is you get to see them up close and personal. Galapagos animals are not shy either so if you wish to sunbathe with a sea lion, this is the place to be.
4. Swim With All Types of Marine Animals
As if the diversity of animals on land isn’t impressive enough, you can be prepared to be even more amazed underwater. There are over 444 species of fishes and 400 species of mollusks in the Galapagos Islands. Your eyes will be so busy, you won’t even know which way to look.
Whether you want to swim with seals, penguins, manta rays, or sharks, you got it. If you take a closer look, you’ll also notice sea stars, sea slugs, marine iguanas and other marine creatures that people normally only get to see on the Discovery channel. Swimming in the Galapagos ocean is a chance of a lifetime and you don’t want to miss out.
5. See it Through Charles Darwin’s Eyes
In 1835, Charles Darwin first set foot on the Galapagos Islands. After studying several species of finches, he soon realized the theory of natural selection and evolutionary biology, as we know it, changed forever. If you want to know what that moment might’ve been like for Darwin, then the Galapagos Islands is a must visit destination for you.
During your visit, you’ll be to able follow Darwin’s footsteps. Your tour guide will point out all the animals he studied and what led him to discover the theory of natural selection. You can learn about what life was like for Darwin when he was there and check out a monument of him to honor his work.
6. Hike Up Volcanoes
What many people don’t realize about the Galapagos Islands is they are a series of inactive and active volcano’s. Their ashes are part of the reason for the island’s rich fauna and flora. Furthermore, the islands’ formation changes slightly every year because there are islands sinking and rising every day.
Of course, all of this only makes hiking on the Galapagos Islands even more interesting. Aside from animals, you’ll also see many interesting plants along the way. If you are able to, make sure you climb up to the top of Sierra Negra, the world’s second largest volcanic crater because the view there will surely take your breath away.
7. Enjoy A Cruise Experience
Since the Galapagos Islands are out in the middle of nowhere, you must take a boat to get to it. It is possible to fly from Guayaquil beach to San Cristobal then take a speedboat but if you want an even more unforgettable experience, take a cruise with Ecuador & Galapagos Insiders instead. What can be more magical than sipping wine on a yacht while looking at one of the most preserved places in the world?
After all, the journey is part of what makes traveling special and the journey to the Galapagos Islands is certainly no exception.
Ready to visit the Galapagos Islands Beaches?
We can go on and on about the reasons to visit the Galapagos Islands but the truth is, no words can really capture the stunning beauty and preservation of it.
If you would like to start planning your trip to the Galapagos Islands today or have any questions about it, be sure reach out on our website and we’ll help you plan the perfect trip for you and your family.
