Dreaming of the Galapagos? Curious where this unique Archipelago is located? Part of Ecuador, it dances across both sides of the equator about 600 miles west of the mainland. I had my chance to explore this slice of heaven in the summer of 2009 aboard a little expedition ship of 100 passengers. Fun fact: by law no ships of more than 100 guests are permitted in the Galapagos, guaranteeing a private and personal experience for everyone. This was one of the neatest places I have ever seen. It is an animal and bird lover’s paradise, from the famous Blue Footed Boobies and frigate birds with their bright red puffed out chests to the abundant sea life and the gigantic Galapagos tortoises.
The wonderful thing about the Galapagos is you get to spend your days outdoors right in the middle of nature’s best! Our guides took us ashore every morning and every afternoon to surprisingly different islands each day. We saw wildlife galore...and I am not talking about from a distance. Nesting birds, sleeping sea lions, giant iguanas and the charming Sally Lightfoot crab, all practically right at your feet. Snorkeling was a big highlight for me. I got to swim with the sea lions, penguins, sea turtles, plenty of fish and even a Nurse Shark or two. There is an activity level for everyone, from the highly active adventurer to the casual walker.
My favorite animal turned out to be a big surprise tor me. It was the flamingo! Did you know that the undersides of the flamingos’ wings are black! I found that out when a group of flamingos eating idly in a little pond suddenly took flight, swooped around the pond and landed gracefully back in place. I swore they were putting on a show just for us. I had never witnessed a flamingo in flight, and I found it beautiful and fascinating.
Ecuador has opened to international visitors who complete a pre-travel travel authorization and can present a negative PCR Covid-19 test that is no more than 10 days old. This is very encouraging and we hope that our clients will be enjoying this special experience soon. We can compare notes when you get home!
