I recently had the amazing opportunity to visit this remote destination. In this post I am sharing my experience and tips to help you if Galapagos is on your bucket list.

The Galapagos Islands always show up in the recommendations for must-visit destinations in the world with wildlife and landscapes found nowhere on earth. Over 97 % of the archipelago is preserved as a Natural Park. Due to the conservation efforts, the Galapagos Islands are extremely pristine. No other place on earth is as free of introduced and invasive species.

My experience

I visited the islands with the Eco Luxury company Haugan Cruises on the Luxury Catamaran Ocean Spray for 4 days.  Our naturalist guide from the cruise who would be accompanying and guiding us during our time on the yacht,  was at the airport in San Cristobal to receive us. We drove with a bus for a few minutes through San Cristobal to the port to board the Ocean Spray. I loved the abundance of playful sea lions splashing in the water and on the lava rock at the dock.

Cecibel, our wonderful naturalist guide on the yacht held a  daily briefing in the evening, in the spacious and comfortable lounge on the itinerary and excursions for the next day. I loved listening to her descriptions, the element of fun she added to everything and her feminine leadership with the group.  We were well prepared for the different types of activities like hiking and snorkelling in different areas.

All meals served on board were so delicious and healthy and one of the highlights of the cruise. There were also delicious snacks on arrival after the day’s activities as well as water infused with herbs and cucumbers. Snacks, coffee and tea are at hand all the time in the panoramic dining room. One of my favourite snacks was pistachios and horchata tea.

For the duration of the time on board and during the excursions there were no shopping, no crowds and no internet. The whole focus is on the beautiful environment, the wildlife of Galapagos and our enjoyment.

My tips 

• Temperatures are moderate through out the year. Pack summer clothes with a light sweater or jacket for chilly evenings on deck or after snorkelling excursions in colder water. I didn’t really need it and I was travelling end June. The coldest month is August.

• You will need a pair of slippers or shoes for wet landings which means you will get your feet in water when disembarking from the rubber dinghies and will walk to the shore. I descended bare feet into the water and then put on my slippers for walking. You will also need close-toed shoes for walking and short hikes.

• Take ear plugs with you if the sound of the ocean at night is an issue.

• Wetsuits, flippers and snorkel masks are provided on board. If you are more comfortable with your own, bring them along.

• Water-resistant and high-SPF sunscreen.

• If there is anything you need for your own comfort remember to include it in your luggage. I love essential oils and was so glad to have them with me.

• If you tend to sea sickness like me, take your medication with you. I used the patch that the owner of Haugan Cruises gave me and it helped.

• Of course  camera gear and chargers because you will be taking a lot of pictures.

• Cash to pay for the Transit Control Card and National Park Fee required for entrance to the Islands (US$ 120 combined)

My traveling companion Jordan (@_wanderlustre) loved the snorkelling most. In her own words, these were her highlights: Seeing the wildlife and swimming with the sea lions, sharks sleeping at the bottom of the ocean, the vibrant-colored starfish. The Corona del Diablo (collapsed caldera off Floreana) was particularly spectacular.

Corona del Diablo is known as one of the top snorkelling destinations in the world.

Galapagos Islands is definitely a once in a lifetime experience. Being so close to the wildlife is a very special sacred experience that increased my awareness of the choices we make and their impact on the environment.

I have compiled a lot more information on Galapagos Islands. Let me know if you need more information.