Galapagos Islands in Ecuador & Galapagos Islands

Lying some 600 miles off Ecuador’s Pacific Coast, the Galapagos Islands remain one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles. These inhospitable and largely uninhabited volcanic islands are remarkable for the many fascinating endemic species of fauna that have lived here in isolation for so long.

It was Charles Darwin's voyage of discovery and the subsequent publication of his 'On the Origin of the Species by Natural Selection' that first brought these islands to the world's attention. Still a living laboratory of evolution, a visit to the Galapagos is essential for anyone interested in natural history, wildlife and ecology.

A voyage through the islands of the archipelago aboard one of the many comfortable vessels operating there, allows you to gain a deep understanding of the Galapagos’ remarkable natural history. The birds and animals show little fear, and such fascinating species as the giant tortoise, marine iguana, waved albatross and blue-footed booby, allow visitors to observe their extraordinary rituals at close quarters – a remarkable experience. You will also anchor in protected sites that are excellent for swimming and snorkelling. The marine life of the Galapagos is equally captivating, and to swim alongside sea lions, turtles, penguins, and shoals of multi-coloured tropical fish will be another highlight of any cruise.