The Galapagos Islands hold an air of mystique and fascination for travelers everywhere. It’s a destination most people have heard of, but one they may not fully understand. Part of the Galapagos intrigue is its unique setting and the creatures that live within it. Add to that a remote location and Galapagos vacations become once-in-a-lifetime trips for many.

The Culture of the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are made up of 21 islands total, 18 major islands and over 50 islets. The islands are a volcanic archipelago, or in simpler terms, a cluster of islands. Although many of them are inhabited solely by wildlife, there are humans in the Galapagos as well. San Cristobal is probably the most notable island, and also one of the oldest geologically, while Santa Cruz has the tourism center. Other islands that host humans are Isabela, Santa Cruz and Floreana.

Only around 25,000 people inhabit the Galapagos, yet it is still rich in culture. Tourism is a big industry, but the Galapagos is also known for its fishing villages and unique exports. Visitors of the Galapagos will find a wonderful array of restaurants and shops, a seafood-based cuisine that is diverse, with choices like lobster, shellfish, squid and several types of fish.

Many languages are spoken in the Galapagos; however, Spanish is the main one used. Travelers will find adventure in the area, from tours of the incredible land and sea to a variety of outdoor activities. The opportunity to learn is a top option as well, and people will find resources and experiences that will increase their knowledge in ways they never imagined.

The Galapagos Spirit

People often are drawn to what makes a place unique. The islands capture the spirit of nature and biology, making Galapagos vacations a place to immerse yourself in the outdoors. The land and animals are what gain the most notice, but it’s also the rich history, and the timeless, untouched feel.

It is easy to imagine that the Galapagos looks the same as it did to the first humans who came across it—pristine, engaging, mysterious and stunning. Add to that a multitude of animals that seem welcoming and just as curious about their visitors, and you have a place that has its own powerful spirit.

Galapagos Vacations: A Truly Unique Destination

A trip to the Galapagos will give you the chance to see things you won’t be able to see anywhere else in the world. Some of the featured highlights include:

• Wildlife: The Galapagos Islands are known for wildlife, and a visit ensures you’ll be able to view things you may never see again. You are almost guaranteed to have an abundance of sightings on your trip. Some of the most common animals people encounter include the Galapagos sea lions, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and frigatebirds. There are several species spread throughout the islands, and depending on the time of year, you will see different animals and behaviors. No matter the time of year, the animal activity is alive with color and wonderful antics.

• Lava tubes: The lava tubes in the Galapagos will feel like an adventure of its own—on another planet. The strange and beautiful formations will surround you as you realize you are walking through mazes of natural history.

• Unbeatable snorkeling and diving: Anyone who has a love of water will find an incredible undersea world in the Galapagos. Teeming with life, snorkeling and diving in the Galapagos is an unparalleled underwater experience.
• The Charles Darwin research station: No one can deny that Charles Darwin had a big impact on this world, and the Galapagos served as one of his main research centers. The Charles Darwin Research Station works to protect the integrity of the islands, and also is a way for visitors to learn in-depth about the Galapagos.

A Lasting Impression

There will always be trips people take that stand out in their memories—where they can remember the awe and adventure. The Galapagos has wonderful ways to explore; through cruising the waters and walking the land.

It is one of those places where every glance is breathtaking and you are engaged daily in the ultimate outdoor classroom. It’s a place where history and learning are fun, and nature remains the heart and soul of the destination. Although travelers will eventually leave their Galapagos vacations to return to their daily life, a piece of it will always live on within them afterward.