The incredible Galapagos Islands offer so much variety for your holiday
The Galapagos Islands are world famous for rare wildlife and incredible island hopping to discover marine life. But there is so much more to do on a Galapagos holiday than just snorkeling. We take a look at our favourite and most unique activities to enjoy on the Galapagos Islands; from cultural days, to hiking volcanoes, dining in lava tunnels to a day spent with an ex-fisherman. There is something to excite every member of the family on the Galapagos Islands, you could easily fill two weeks here on holiday and still find things to do.
Hike the mighty Sierra Negra Volcano
The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most active volcanoes on the planet, so hiking one should be on everyone’s wish list of things to do here! Located on Isabela Island and rising to a height of 1124 metres, Sierra Negra Volcano is an incredible sight to witness and offers a really exciting hike. The climb is an easy- medium challenge, as long as you have a decent base level of fitness you should be fine and our expert guide will be on hand to advise how best to tackle the day. The hike usually starts early to make the most of the views; you will witness amazing other worldly landscapes, wildlife and birds and if you are lucky some lava tubes. This atmospheric walk can typically include some morning fog and drizzle, but you should still be able to see Galapagos Hawks, finches, flycatchers and Short Eared Owls en route. Reaching the rim of the crater, (the second largest in the world after the Ngorongoro in Tanzania) you will be richly rewarded for your hard work! The crater is absolutely vast and the views expansive, photos will never do it justice. Afterwards head towards the alien-like landscape of Volcan Chico to enjoy more amazing views along with lava tubes and fumaroles. Relax in the shade of a beautiful “jaboncillo” tree and have lunch while taking in the spectacular and expansive views over the central and northern parts of the Island. The Volcano is active so plans may need to alter on the day if there has been any recent activity. You can visit year round but may prefer the cooler drier months of June – November so speak to our Galapagos experts about planning your holiday around your preferred dates. It’s a fairly long hike (6-8 hours) but well worth it when you see the unbelievable views from the top!
Sleep in lodges among these majestic creatures
To really immerse with nature and do it differently, we suggest a stay at Galapagos Magic Camp where you can sleep in an actual Giant Tortoise reserve! The accommodation itself is designed more on the simple side, with less frills you may find in some of the 5* beach hotels on the islands. That’s because here, it’s ALL about the Tortugas (Galapagos Giant Tortoises) These magnificent slow moving beasts are often the main reason our guests want to travel to The Galapagos Islands. This Camp is the place to stay to witness hundreds of these majestic animals carefully and slowly roam in their natural habitat, undisturbed and unbothered by fascinated humans. Choose from a range of lodges (Safari tents, tree houses, suites) for your unique stay here. A couple of nights would be perfect and a great way to combine a luxurious stay, a cruise, or an island hopping Galapagos adventure.
See the stark and sobering Wall of Tears
Want to try something really different on your Galapagos adventure? Set out on your bike with our expert guide for a really unique day visiting the ‘Wall of Tears’ built by former prisoners. The landscape dramatically changes as the route progresses; from sandy paths to volcanic gravel, from white beaches to thick mangroves. Along the way you may see Giant Turtles slowly crossing your paths, and keep an eye out for the Mirador Cerro Orchilla which gives an amazing lookout point to the southern coast of the island. At the Wall of Tears (El Muro de la Lagrimes) learn more about the history of this sombre landmark, as inmates were forced to walk long distances to make slabs for the wall. A sobering but important place to visit, not just for the stunning views and varied landscapes, but to learnt more about these unique islands and their history; both good and bad.
Swim with Sea lions
Obviously one of the main draws to these incredible islands is the chance to swim in crystal clear waters with some of the worlds most amazing sea creatures! Whether you choose a cruise or an island based adventure, getting out into the water will be a highlight. Typically your boat or hotel will offer wet suit hire, and most will have kayaks and snorkels available to use with your experienced guide. It’s quite likely a playful sea lion pup will swim up close, a keen penguin will shoot past you, a manta ray will elegantly come into vision, and you may be really lucky to swim near a one of the many species of sharks found here. You can swim and snorkel all year round in the Galapagos but around January – March time you can expect slightly warmer seas.
Journey to remote corners of the Islands to see wildlife with an ex-fisherman guide
Preserving and protecting the eco systems in The Galapagos is absolutely essential and responsible tourism has a key role to play. In recent years fisherman have switched from fishing to sustainable tourism, to help protect dwindling and precious fish supplies. Its vital local people who do switch trades can make a sustainable and long term living, so one of the private tours we offer is a day out with a local ex-fisherman. Set out to sea with the Niña Bella, his welcoming crew and a knowledgeable naturalist guide for a full day to discover the waters near one of the Galapagos’ most remote islands. Sustainable tourism has transformed the Galapagos Islands, reshaping the local economy from one of subsistence fishing and small-scale agriculture to one where tourism employs around 40% of locals. Our partners on the ground have worked with local fishermen to transform their careers from harvesting fish to showing the Galapagos’ rich marine ecosystem to visitors while also helping to preserve them. A really unique and thrilling day out that also holds real value to the local environment and community.
Traditional coffee farming in the Galapagos
Give yourself a day off from kayaking and discover the cultural quirks of these amazing islands. This fantastic cultural expedition day is spent on Santa Cruz with your private guide and transport. Spend time visiting the farming areas of El Casacajo discovering the traditional methods of coffee and sugar cane cultivation. Learn about the process, the small scale production lines and try some of the handcrafted product. The excursion then takes you to the Charles Darwin Research Center; the matrix of all the scientific research projects in the Galapagos islands. Learn about the vital conservation and research projects in action and how the most sensitive conversation efforts are being managed and implemented. If you have a love of wildlife and conservation, this is THE place to visit and learn more.
This fascinating day is finished off with a visit to a wood workshop where you can see first hand how local Galapaguenos artists have dedicated their lives to the islands rare wood (cedrella). Skilled craftsmen create some incredible pieces, full of creativity and details that reflect the nature of beauty of these islands.
Have dinner in Lava Tunnels! A totally unique activity
A nod again to the unique and wonderful Galapagos Magic Camp; where you can actually dine in Lava Caves! This one-off experience is a fantastic way to experience the formations without being too rushed on a typical day trip…enjoy a meal and drinks at leisure in this amazing natural setting. The food here is really tasty too, with an excellent selection of wine. We’ve booked this experience for guests looking to add on a romantic evening, those celebrating a birthday, or or those who love to eat dinner in really unusual one-off places. The acoustics, the light, the sounds and smells…this is the way to really experience the volcanic beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
A holiday to the Galapagos really has it all. From incredible wildlife and learning about conversation, to snorkelling trips, live aboard dive boats, cultural days and volcano hikes. There is an activity to suit every member of the family and enough to do to fill a two week trip. For a once in a lifetime unique holiday filled with thrilling activities, speak to our team today to arrange your bespoke Galapagos adventure.
