The Galapagos Islands should be on the bucket list of anyone that loves wildlife. It’s certainly on mine! These incredible islands are home to some of the most amazing creatures in the world. Located off the coast of Ecuador, they are considered to be one of the world’s foremost destinations for wildlife viewing. Even on your first visit to the Galapagos Islands, you’ll get the chance to be up close and personal with marine iguana, finches, giant tortoises, penguins, sea lions, and even blue- and red-footed boobies, to name a few.
The impressive volcanic landscapes and the crystal clear blue waters make the islands truly magical, and it’s the perfect place for an exotic adventure. But if you have never visited before, there are a few things you should know. Here are some of the most important tips for your first visit to the Galapagos Islands.
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Take a Diving Course Before You Go
The marine life around the islands is one of the best things to see while you are there, but you’ll need to go diving if you want to make the most of it. You can always take a course while you are there, but that will take up time on your trip. It’s a much better idea to take a course before you go so you can make the most of your time while you are in the Islands. It’s also likely to be cheaper at home.
Consider a Cruise
One of the best ways to see the Galapagos Islands is by taking a cruise. If you want to see all of the islands and explore everything the area has to offer, there are some great Galapagos cruises you can take. If you haven’t been before, this is the best way to experience more of what these incredible islands have to offer.
Buy A Good Camera
Between the awe-inspiring landscapes and the rich wildlife, there are so many great photo opportunities in the Galapagos. If you want to take some amazing photos while you are out there, you need to invest in a good camera. My personal favorite is a point-and-shoot with a great zoom lens, so you can capture great pictures from a distance.
You might even want a waterproof camera so you can capture the underwater marvels as well. Make sure to bring plenty of memory cards so you don’t run out of space and miss something incredible.
Pack The Right Clothes
You will spend a lot of time walking around exploring the islands. The terrain can be quite tricky because there is a lot of volcanic rock. You don’t want to miss out on seeing exotic wildlife because your feet are sore and you need to stop, so make sure to pack sturdy, supportive footwear. A pair of good quality open-toed sandals are good because you don’t want to get too hot. Tennis shoes are also a practical choice. As well as footwear, make sure to bring clothing that protects you from the equatorial sun. It’s going to be hot, and the sun will be blazing. Even with plenty of sunscreen, you could still get burned, so you should make sure to cover up during the hottest periods.
Learn about the history of the Galapagos Islands
It isn’t necessary but it would certainly make your first visit to the Galapagos Islands more meaningful. Learning about the history of the islands will help you better appreciate the treasures they hold. And understanding the efforts that have been made to protect and preserve those treasures will help you be a better tourist, too.
Summary
The Galapagos Islands are unique, with their rugged beauty and number of endemic wildlife species. Visiting the islands just might be the trip of a lifetime. If you follow the tips above, you can make the most of your first visit to the Galapagos Islands.
