This was our second visit to the Galapagos Islands and we were looking forward to following in Darwin’s footsteps on the newly renovated Santa Cruz II. It really was our dream Galapagos cruise. The first time we visited the Galapagos National Park, we stayed ashore and took water taxis and shuttles from island to island. It was fun, but this trip was luxurious, adventurous, informative and fun. We had a great time on the ship with 39 like-minded passengers who were in the Galapagos with one goal: to have the adventure of a lifetime.
About the Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are a paradise for an incredible diversity of endemic species, from the famous giant turtles to playful sea lions and colorful blue-footed boobies. You will see unique animals only on these enchanted islands. It’s amazing to see these animals thrive in the arid landscape and isolated conditions.
Even the animals that you have seen elsewhere are unique to the Galapagos. The Galapagos sea iguana is the only iguana in the world that feeds underwater, and Galápagos penguins are the only penguin species in the northern hemisphere. From finches to mockingbirds, every living creature is fascinating. The fauna here inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, and whispers of him can be found on the islands, from giant turtle sanctuaries to museums.
Where are the Galapagos Islands located?
The Galapagos Archipelago consists of 18 main islands off the coast of the Ecuadorian mainland in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. These volcanic islands are among the most remote places on earth, and the best way to see them is on an expedition cruise. During our trip to the Galapagos, we observed unique marine life and visited different islands with different ecosystems and landscapes ranging from lush highlands to arid volcanic terrain.
With rigorous conservation efforts, the Galapagos Islands remain one of the most pristine natural paradises on earth, inviting travelers to discover the wonders of evolution in real time. We crossed the eastern Galapagos Islands and followed in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, who developed his theory of natural selection after visiting the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Cruise Route-In The Footsteps Of Darwin
Our six-day Galapagos cruise took us through several eastern islands, where we could go snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, SUP and Zodiac cruises through the Archipelago in search of marine life like sea turtles, sharks and sea lions.
We had a luxurious experience from the moment we landed in Quito until our final destination in the rainforest of the Mashpi Lodge. In total, we spent two weeks in Ecuador, including six days exploring The Galapagos Archipelago.
Quito
Most people fly to Quito, Ecuador, when they go to the Galapagos and barely look there. Not so long ago, people who booked a Galapagos cruise completely skipped the city and only explored the small Archipelago off the coast of South America, but fortunately, things have changed. People quickly learned that Quito is a wonderful city to explore.