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A first-class boat ride around the extraordinary archipelago of the Galapagos, soaking in the sunshine, viewing the incredible wildlife that left such a lasting impact on Darwin, and snorkeling with iridescent fish and playful sea lions? Sounds idyllic to us! Exodus’ Julie Ruston recently returned from this unbelievable tour, keep reading to hear about her highlights, tips, and must-dos for this awe-inspiring destination.
When you think of a trip to the Galapagos Islands, legendary wildlife is naturally the first thing that comes to mind. For me, it was the blue-footed booby that exemplified the natural diversity of this magical part of the world, and I was so excited to see them for myself. I had been hearing about these incredible birds for years and always thought they were so different and interesting. Their feet were an even brighter blue than I had imagined, truly like nothing else on earth.
This is not a tour to embark on without your bathing suit, as there are endless opportunities to swim, kayak, and snorkel on this trip. By exploring Ecuador from the water, we were able to venture into the spectacular sunken crater of Devil’s Crown and swim in crystal-clear waters with millions of tiny, curious, colorful fish.
Each time we returned to the boat after exploring by kayak, panga, hiking, or snorkeling, the friendly crew always met us with a delicious welcome drink and a snack to enjoy. Whether a fruity cocktail or a warm drink, these small treats made the luxurious boat feel like our home in paradise.
Wildlife lovers who enjoy traveling by boat will adore this tour of the Galapagos Islands. It’s a birder’s dream vacation, with plenty of natural and adventurous excursions, and should be a top destination on everyone’s bucket list. Whether by boat or on foot, Galapagos Islands tours immerse you into the unique wilderness and culture of this one-of-a-kind destination.