The Galapagos Islands is a bucket-list destination for nature lovers. It is the perfect place for those who want to swim with sea lions or even witness gigantic sea tortoises. The Galapagos is an archipelago of about nineteen islands and several small islets scattered miles away from Ecuador’s Coast in the Pacific Ocean.
The Galapagos is well-known for Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. During Darwin’s visit to the Galapagos, he found several finch species that varied from island to island during his trip to the Galapagos Islands, which helped him create his theory of natural selection.
Today, the Galapagos is not only famous for Darwin’s discovery of finches. The islands boast beauty with unique landscapes ranging from color to color, white sand beaches, and the bluest waters. If you are planning to go to the Galapagos, here are a few things you need to remember.
The Whole Trip to the Galapagos Islands Is Not Cheap
A trip to the Galapagos is a little bit pricey. However, you can easily craft a trip with limited expenses. First, get there cheaply. The best way to visit the Galapagos Islands is by flying from mainland Ecuador. You can check LAN Airlines and TAME. They offer cheap flights going as low as $250 per round trip.
You can either choose to ride on a cruise for the whole trip or roam around the archipelago by land. Another cheap way to stay in the Galapagos Islands is to have a do-it-yourself trip. You can find budget accommodation options along Thomas de Berlanga Street and Isla Plaza Street.
Here are some budget friendly hostels you can find in the Galapagos.
- Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel
Address: Km 12 via a Baltra, Puerto Ayora, Puerto Ayora 200350, Ecuador - Galapagos Best Hostel
Address: Calle Piquero Nº 140 y Scalesia, Puerto Ayora 200102, Ecuador - Hotel Coloma Galapagos
Address: Avenida Baltra 521 y 18 de febrero Puerto Ayora, 200102, Ecuador
You can book rooms ahead of time by clicking here.
Almost Everything in the Galapagos Islands Is a National Park
Over 60 years ago, The Galapagos National Park took lead in facilitating important studies that helped the conservation and protection of the Galapagos. Today, at least 97% of the archipelago is a national park. The Galapagos National Park charges an entrance fee of USD 100 from visitors to help protect the islands.
Bring Basic and Sturdy Supplies When Visiting the Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands are home to adventure and sightseeing. You need to prepare for your daily activities. Bring sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes with a durable sole. To add to your list, bring lots of water-resistant and high-SPF sunscreen. If you plan to snorkel, bring a wetsuit. You might also want to be prepared for any insect bites, so bring an insect repellent.
Anytime Is a Great Visit in the Galapagos
Since the Islands are located near the equator, the islands experience an all-year-round temperate climate. During the hot season from December to May, seas are warmer. Dry season extends from June to November. You will witness calmer seas during the hot season and more marine activities during the dry season. If you decide to dive into the waters of the Galapagos, you might witness at least 800 species of mollusks and over 400 species of fish.
The Galapagos Islands Got Their Name from a Turtle
The term “Galapago” refers to the old Castilian word that means “riding saddle”. The shell of the Galapagos giant tortoise resembles the saddle.
The Galapagos Islands are rightly renowned, but another reason is that the animals are highly tame and without instinctual fear, owing to the absence of natural predators, also owing to the volcanic origin of the islands and their remoteness.
Conclusion
Today, more than 80,000 people visit the Galapagos. More than its beauty, the Galapagos is the best place to learn about environmental conservation while having fun.
If you want to travel to places where you can reconnect with nature, click here for more information.
