How to Plan a Trip to the Galapagos

If you are a wildlife or nature fanatic, a trip to the Galapagos is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Even African safaris don’t get you this close to the animals. There are many reputable outfitters and tour groups who can arrange a trip to the Galapagos for just about any budget. All you need is a camera, a passport and a willingness to leave life as you know it behind.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. All trips to the Galapagos, unless you are going through a research grant, require that you have a naturalist guide accompany you. Make sure your tour provides one.
2. Decide when you’d like to visit the Galapagos. Even though the islands are on the Equator, the high season means warmer weather and water, but more tourists and more money. The low season means mild temperatures and cold water, but you practically have the islands to yourself and the tours are less expensive.
3. Decide what type of trip you’d like to take. If you are more adventurous, look into sailboat-based tours. If you’d prefer more luxury, tour on a luxury yacht. If you get seasick, plan your trip for high season, when the seas are calmer. You can also book a private charter, a custom itinerary or a group tour.
4. Make sure whatever tour you pick, your agent explains everything you need to travel to the Galapagos, including any necessary vaccines. The islands are 600 miles off the coast of Equador, so you will have to book a flight from the mainland to the islands themselves. Ask your tour operator if the flight to the islands and the park entry fee is included in the tour price.
5. Find out what thickness wetsuit you will need if you plan on snorkeling or scuba diving. Water temperatures vary greatly in the Galapagos, and if you visit in off-season, you will need an industrial-strength suit, plus booties, gloves and a cap.
6. Bring extra medication. You will not be able to get supplies while onboard a boat, as the majority of the islands are uninhabited. Make sure you have everything you will need in terms of medical supplies and extra contacts.
7. Get any and all vaccines necessary. Depending on your point of entry to the islands, you may or may not need malaria. Your tour operator should be able to tell you this, so definitely ask.