Introduction
If you’ve been to the Galapagos Islands, don’t tell anyone. The government wants people to keep this place a secret so it doesn’t get over-run with tourists. So far, it’s working: there are only about 25,000 visitors each year. But that may change soon; in recent years, tourism has doubled from when I first visited in 2003 (when my own trip was one of just 300-400 tourists on the islands). Luckily for all of us who want an authentic experience on these remote islands, there are still plenty of hidden gems that remain unexplored by most travelers.
Exploring the Islands
The best way to explore the islands is on a guided tour. You can visit Santa Cruz, Isabela and Fernandina by boat or helicopter. The island of Santa Cruz has two main towns: Puerto Ayora and Puerto Villamil. In Puerto Ayora you will find many shops selling souvenirs and gifts as well as restaurants serving local cuisine at reasonable prices. This is also where most tourists stay when they are visiting this area of Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands as it offers all necessary amenities such as hotels, hostels and apartments that provide all comforts needed while traveling through this magnificent country!
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is located on Isla Isabela which was named after Queen Isabel II of Spain who was instrumental in creating laws protecting wildlife during her reign from 1833-1868 (before Ferdinand VII took power). Today this place serves as home base for boats departing daily trips around nearby islands like Floreana Island where Charles Darwin spent five weeks studying tortoises before returning home with them aboard HMS Beagle .
Nightlife
Nightlife in the Galapagos is limited, but there are a few bars to choose from.
- Puerto Ayora: There are two bars in Puerto Ayora that serve beer, wine and cocktails. You can also find local musicians here performing nightly.
- Puerto Baquerizo Moreno: This town has one bar that serves alcohol as well as live music every night of the week except Monday (when it’s closed). You can also purchase souvenirs here if you’re looking for something unique to bring home with you!
- San Cristobal: This island has two main areas where tourists hang out–at Los Tijeretas Beach Club or at The Backpacker Inn Hostel Bar & Restaurant (which has an awesome view). Both places offer drinks and food if you don’t feel like going anywhere else after dinner!
Day Trips & Tours
Although you can certainly explore the islands on your own, it’s advisable to book one of the many tours available. Tours are a great way to get the most out of your trip and they can be expensive, but they’re worth it–especially if you want to see a lot in just a few days! There are many different types of tours available: some are better than others depending on what kind of experience you want. Some tours cater specifically towards certain people (e.g., families) while others focus on specific interests (e.g., bird-watching).
You should book any tours through the cruise ship because they have access to all kinds of information about which companies have excellent reputations for safety and customer service as well as great prices; these things aren’t always easy to find online when researching companies yourself
Shopping
While you’ll find a few shops selling souvenirs and snacks and drinks, the selection is limited. If you’re looking to do some serious shopping, this is not the place.
Things to Do with Kids in the Galapagos Islands
- Take an organized tour of the islands. There are plenty of companies that will help you plan your trip and find the best way to explore each island. You can take a boat ride to see marine life, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station or National Park Headquarters, go swimming with sea lions and more!
- Visit one of the many nature reserves. These areas are protected by law so they’re great places for children to learn about conservationism firsthand while also having fun (and learning a lot).
The Galapagos Islands are an incredible destination that you don’t want to miss.
You’ll be able to do everything from snorkeling and diving in their pristine waters, hiking volcanoes, or simply relaxing on the beach while you watch sea lions play in the waves. The people of Ecuador are some of the friendliest in South America, so you will never feel alone when visiting this paradise!
Conclusion
The Galapagos Islands are an incredible destination that you don’t want to miss. There are so many things to do and see in this beautiful place, and we hope our guide has helped you decide which one(s) might be right for your trip!
