Why are the Galapagos Popular with Wildlife Enthusiasts?

For a small archipelago off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos islands enjoy outsized fame. Since playing a pivotal role in inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution in 1835, the islands have become an almost sacred destination for wildlife enthusiasts, historians, and lovers of science alike. 

But what is it about the Galapagos that continues to fascinate travelers and capture imaginations around the world? In this article, we explore what makes these islands so special, and why a Galapagos cruise promises a journey of discovery you’ll never forget. 

Unique Wildlife

As Darwin discovered when visiting the Galapagos almost 200 years ago, these islands host an astonishingly diverse array of wildlife – much of it uniquely adapted to life in the archipelago. 

While seeing the famous giant Galapagos tortoises will be at the top of any nature lover’s list, many other captivating creatures call the Galapagos home. Here are some of our favorites: 

• Blue-footed boobies
• Marine iguanas
• Galapagos penguins 
• Galapagos sea lions 
• Galapagos hawks
• Darwin’s finches 
• Waved albatrosses

When cruising the waters around the Galapagos, you may also be fortunate enough to spot sperm whales, bottlenose dolphins, and orcas. In the warmer months, even the occasional humpback and blue whales can be seen!

Stunning Natural Beauty

The Galapagos is an archipelago formed by volcanic activity, accounting for the islands’ dramatic landscapes. When you disembark to explore the islands, prepare to encounter breathtaking sights, like lava fields, volcanic craters, a variety of cacti, and, of course, some of the most pristine beaches on Earth. 

While the Galapagos boasts picturesque white sand beaches to rival any other in the Pacific, white is only one of several colors of beaches found in the archipelago. 

• Hang out with the sea lions and flamingos on the surreal red sand beach of Rabida Island. 
• Walk in Darwin’s footsteps on the black sand beach of James Bay. 
• Stand in awe of the otherworldly green sands of Cormorant Point Beach on Floreana Island. 

After seeing these amazing sights up close, it won’t take long to understand why the Galapagos is beloved by so many. 

Rich History 

While renowned for its natural beauty, the Galapagos features a rich human history as thrilling to learn about as the islands are to explore. 

From Western explorers and pirates to indigenous people who made their way to the Galapagos from the mainland centuries ago, the islands have been drawing people to their exotic shores for many years. 

When you go on your Galapagos cruise, be sure to book an expert-guided excursion to learn all about the archipelago’s fascinating history. 

Sustainable Tourism Practices 

As a beacon of scientific progress and ecological diversity, the Galapagos has gone to great lengths to build sustainable tourism practices that help preserve the natural beauty of the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Ensuring tourism companies comply with strict regulations dramatically reduces environmental impacts, and the close management and monitoring of these federally protected lands helps maintain the diversity the islands are famed for. The Galapagos ultimately serves as an example of how to conduct tourism in a way that fosters appreciation for the natural world without inflicting harm. 

Are you ready to set sail and explore these one-of-a-kind islands? Celebrity Cruises offers exclusive cruises to the Galapagos. Climb aboard the Celebrity Flora and discover the unique beauty of these islands from the comfort of a world-class cruise ship. 

Book your Galapagos vacation with Leisure Travel Enterprises today and take advantage of exclusive packages and discounts through our partnership with this trusted cruise line.