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Small Ship | Tagged Posts
2020
14
May
What are the best tips for visiting the Galápagos Islands?
14
May
Question:
Humans say...
Alison
How long are you going for? When? Just Galápagos Islands? Tour or self organize?
I planned my own trip in October 2016, and travelled in Ecuador for 20 days and then 10 days on the Islands. Booked a 4 night yacht trip about a week before we got there. Much cheaper to wait to last minute if you can. We snorkeled twice a day and had zodiac trips for walks on the islands with a naturalist. So amazing!
Took ferry from Santa Cruz to Isabella - Tunnel boat tour was a great day trip.
If you prefer a tour that makes your arrangements for yacht tour, look at GAdventures.
Sharon
Hi Alison, wow, that sounds like an amazing adventure! We’re planning on going for 10 days just to Galápagos, on a tour - I will definitely look up GAdventures - thankyou for the tip
Alison
Sharon A tour takes the stress away for all the planning. But adding free days on your own is easy to do there. I would suggest 7 day yacht tour and 2-3 days exploring on your own. Have fun!
Troy
Alison
As a traveller and a travel agent , I totally agree with your assessment
If you have lots of free time and don’t get stressed, doing it yourself will save you money
Tours cost a bit more then doing it yourself but it’s all taken care off and your are guaranteed spots and entrance . No hassle , stress or thinking
Giordana
We did a heavily discounted 8 day long cruise on a very small ship and it was a once in a lifetime experience. Highly recommend it. I think we just started on galapagosislands.com and hooked up with a travel professional from there.
GALAPAGOSISLANDS.COM
Galapagos Islands Vacation Tours and Travel | GalapagosIslands.com
Norma
We first decided what kind of boat we wanted then we narrowed it down based on that. It was 9 years ago so my memory is foggy about how we found a listing of boats. But we wanted a sailing catamaran, for less than 14 or so guests. Ended up on the Nemo II.
A backpacker did a last minute on our boat and paid a fraction of our costs (naturally).
I bought my bird field guide before we left.
We were a dot in the Pacific, middle of no where, and conincidentally 1/2 the boat were from BC
Jamie
Make sure you have a crisp $50 and $100 bills to enter the island. Something they don’t tell you about and they don’t take visa!!! Cash only.
Barb
Following
Christin
Make sure you do your homework for a boat & guide. I was there 16 yrs ago on Gap Adventure tour, have to say, I was underwhelmed. Expensive & the water was really chilly & I’m an ocean swimmer here in Vancouver. Wildlife was minimal, depending on if La Nina or El Nino weather. For the money, I’d go to Africa & see wildlife.
Sharon
Hi Christin great suggestion about homework for the boat guide - we’ve been to South Africa on an amazing safari and have been to Costa Rica 4x (returning in November) so thought it’ll be nice to see some other rare wildlife- I have my fingers crossed!
Christin
Sharon well you’ve seen the big game then! Africa is amazing, been twice. Costa Rica is amazing too! Due diligence for the boat/guide or tour company & I hope it’s fab! Happy
& safe travels. Have to say Ecuador is a fab country, spent a month there, 4 days on Galapagos.
A.I. says...
Planning a Trip to the Galápagos Islands: Tips and Advice
The Galápagos Islands are a unique and unforgettable travel destination. Here are some tips and advice to help you plan your trip:
1. Book your trip in advance.
The Galápagos Islands are a popular tourist destination, so it's important to book your trip in advance, especially if you're traveling during the peak season (June to November). You can book your flights, accommodations, and tours through a travel agent or directly with the providers.
2. Choose the right time to visit.
The best time to visit the Galápagos Islands is during the dry season (June to November). During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, and the seas are calm. However, the islands are also popular during the wet season (December to May), when the weather is warmer and there is more rain.
3. Decide how you want to travel.
There are two main ways to travel around the Galápagos Islands: by land or by sea. If you're interested in seeing the islands' wildlife up close, you can book a land-based tour. These tours typically last for 4-7 days and include guided hikes, boat excursions, and snorkeling. If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, you can book a sea-based tour. These tours typically last for 7-10 days and include stops at different islands, where you can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.
4. Pack for the weather.
The weather in the Galápagos Islands can be unpredictable, so it's important to pack for all types of weather. You should bring a raincoat, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. You should also bring comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on the islands.
5. Be prepared for wildlife.
The Galápagos Islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, and penguins. It's important to be respectful of the wildlife and not disturb them. You should also stay away from animals that are feeding or sleeping.
6. Respect the environment.
The Galápagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it's important to respect the environment. You should not litter, and you should be careful not to damage the plants and wildlife. You should also follow the instructions of the park rangers and tour guides.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip to the Galápagos Islands.
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Sharon
We’re thinking of going to the Galápagos Islands next year - any suggestions or advise?