Wildlife Holidays in the Galapagos
Its geological and evolutionary history, landscapes and extraordinary wildlife
make this strangely beautiful volcanic archipelago unlike anywhere else on the
planet. These 'Enchanted Isles', where Charles Darwin developed his
ground-breaking theory of evolution, are home to prehistoric-looking Land and
Marine Iguanas and Giant Tortoises, as well as a host of endemic birds and other
wildlife. Naturetrek's comprehensive Galapagos cruise itineraries offer the keen
naturalist a wonderful adventure aboard either a two-masted Topsail Schooner
(Cachalote) or a First Class motor boat (Beluga) to explore this unique
environment under the guidance of our expert naturalist guide.
Our Specialist recommends
'If you have the time and budget, a 14 night/15 day Galapagos cruise is the way
to go for any keen naturalist/photographer. Since the Galapagos National Park
streamlined and improved the boat itineraries, minimising criss-crossing and
wasted time, there's never been a better time to visit. Our cruises make for a
truly unique experience. Expect to be enthralled by the approachable wildlife,
varied walks around the islands and the high quality snorkelling in clear (if
slightly chilly!) seas. Add the Amazon extension to Sacha Lodge for a completely
different dimension to your holiday in Ecuador.'
Andy Tucker
Operations Manager
Why Choose Naturetrek?
We offer the most comprehensive Galapagos cruise
itineraries available, visiting a range of wildlife-rich sites for an up-close
and personal encounter with the diverse fauna of this astonishing archipelago.
Travelling in a comfortable two-masted Topsail Schooner or motor boat, we
provide a unique experience with the opportunity for daily landings in
wildlife-rich landing sites created by the Galapagos National Park authority. We
visit all the larger islands as well as numerous smaller ones, spending relaxed,
quality time at each location to enjoy the unique natural features and resident
fauna, allowing ample opportunities for photography and snorkelling. In between
landings there's plenty of time to relax and keep an eye out for the many marine
creatures that keep our vessel company, including countless seabirds, dolphins
and even the occasional passing whale or pods of Orcas. Our local naturalist
guides provide outstanding leadership and a wealth of knowledge on the natural
history and wildlife of the islands, and the highly trained crew offer
exceptional service. With the freedom and independence to travel at our own
pace, we explore the full magnificence of this unique environment. Galapagos
Cruise Highlights Naturetrek's inspirational itineraries include:
- The most comprehensive cruise itineraries available
- Expert local naturalist guides with
extensive natural history knowledge
- Choose from a comfortable two-masted
Topsail Schooner or a First Class motor boat
- Daily landings at wildlife-rich sites to encounter endemic wildlife · Plenty of time to enjoy photography
- Sightings of countless seabirds and other marine life on voyages between islands
- Opportunities to snorkel and encounter myriad fish and Galapagos Sea Lions
- Island highlights include Fernandina, Genovesa and Espanola
- Sightings of Waved Albatross during June - December
- Add an Amazon Rainforest extension at wonderful Sacha Lodge
WHAT YOU'VE BEEN SAYING ABOUT OUR Galapagos HOLIDAYS
An amazing experience - of a lifetime for people my age! Darwin Alvarez was outstanding! In many trips abroad with many leaders, I have never come across anyone with such a complete knowledge of his subject(s)! History, geology, meteorology, birds, fish, plants, insects - awesome! His self-taught English was also flawless - so were his diving/snorkelling abilities!
After 15 years of this type of travel we thought Darwin Alvarez and Vinicio Ortiz were the best guide and tour leader we have ever had.
William Perez was one of the best guides we have ever been with and a pleasure to be in his company.