For nature lovers it is paradise: Ecuador's Archipiélago de Colón, islands better known as the Galapagos. Located in the proverbial "middle of nowhere" in the Pacific Ocean, 600 miles from the coast of Ecuador, these remote islands of volcanic origin are home to some of the most exotic animals on the planet.
And the fauna of the Galapagos, that includes such species as marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises, is not only abundant and extraordinary, but also fearless. Not timid -- as it's never had reason to fear humans -- it goes about its business when visitors approach and sometimes seems to pose for pictures. The islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, give the sensation of being in "another world" as one can observe animals, not only in close proximity but also for long periods of time.
The Archipelago of the Galapagos, is composed of 13 big islands, six smaller ones and 107 cays. Some 25,000 people live in the Galapagos, mostly on five islands. In 1959 Ecuador designated 97 percent of the archipelago as national park to protect its fragile ecology, and, in 1986, extended the protection as a natural reserve to the waters surrounding the islands. In addition to the ecological interest, the Galapagos also boast history: it was here that Charles Darwin realized studies in 1835 that served him well in formulating his theory regarding the origin of species.
A cruise is an ideal way to explore several of the Galapagos islands, utilizing the ship as base. Frequently, due to the proximity of the islands it is possible to visit two isles in one day. And now, there is a new option for travelers wishing to cruise the Galapagos: Silversea’s Silver Galapagos.
Launched in September, the Silver Galapagos offers three-, four- and seven-day itineraries that can be combined with programs to other points of South America including the Inca ruins at Machu Picchu in Peru.
A 100-passenger, all-suite ship the Silver Galapagos is equipped with zodiacs for landings in remote places to be able to quickly reach, for example a sea lion community sunning itself on a beach. Other highlights include Darwin's famous finches, and, depending on the itinerary chosen, the giant tortoises, symbol of the islands, at the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, where scientists work on conservation programs including a breeding colony and hikes in the Rancho Mariposa, a private preserve/ranch located in the migration route of the tortoises, also on Santa Cruz Island, where visitors can see these noble giants in the wild. These E.T. look-alikes can weigh some 300 pounds and live more than 100 years.
The Silver Galapagos features butler service, gourmet fare and included beverages. A team of naturalists and other experts leads every expedition and accompany included zodiac tours, hikes and other activities. Facilities onboard include a lounge where the expedition team features talks, a piano bar, two restaurants (including an al fresco grill), library, a Jacuzzi, beauty salon, fitness center and massage room.
Frequent stops in the Galapagos include such highlights as Espanola, with its resident sea lion colony; Floreana with its Post Office Bay where a barrel has served as a "post office" since the 18th century (travelers drop their postcards and letters in the barrel and other travelers who live near the destination of the letters take them and deliver them -- and, of course, no stamps are needed!); Punta Espinosa, on Fernandina Island, where the fauna includes sea lions, marine iguanas and cormorants.
Other stops may include -- depending on the itinerary selected -- Genovesa Island, in whose waters dolphins and whales are often sighted as well as thousands of marine birds; Bartolomé Island, with its volcanic formation, mangrove swamp and penguin colony; and Santiago, where it is common to spot groups of sea lions and seals during hikes.
Here's quick look at pricing:
Silver Galapagos, a three-night voyage on Nov. 13 starts at $2,335. www.silversea.com
Celebrity Xpedition, a seven-night sailing departing on Nov. 15 is priced from $2,899. www.celebritycruises.com
Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic
The National Geographic Endeavour features 10- and 16- day programs. A 10-day departure on Nov. 15 is priced from $4,990. www.expeditions.com
IF YOU GO – For additional information on the Galapagos, visit http://www.ecuadortouristinformation.com/galapagos-islands-information.html.