Island Hopping The World-Famous Galapagos Islands

It’s on everyone’s bucket list – the once in a lifetime trip to the Galapagos Islands. A mecca for animal lovers, the islands earned their reputation after the findings of Victorian explorer Charles Darwin .To this day, the islands draw crowds year in year out seeking to witness first hand its rare wildlife, biodiversity and unique microclimate.

Tour Operator: Faralong
Price: £3299

With Faralong, you too can explore these fascinating islands in the footsteps of the great scientist, be it by snorkelling its crystal clear waters amongst colourful marine life, on foot on lengthy hikes through its glorious landscapes, or by boat, allowing you to take in the breath-taking scenery of its rugged volcanic landscape.

The trip begins with your arrival in the highest capital in the world – Quito. After an evening to recover from your flight and to get to know your new travel buddies, it’s off to San Cristobel Island where you are given a enlightening overview of the islands’ history as well as its unique flora and fauna. There is the chance for birdwatching on the summit of Tijeretas Hill as well as ample opportunity for snorkelling in the company of playful sea lions!

The next day on this action-packed tour involves boarding a small local boat and visiting the impressive Kicker Rock. This rocky outcrop is home to an astonishing array of sea birds and below the surface of the water, a huge amount of marine life from sea turtles to sharks. Spend the day snorkelling the aqua waters or looking out for the islands’ rare species.

Next stop on the tour is a trip to the island’s highland and ‘Peace Asylum’, where the first colonists of the Galapagos settled. This is also a great spot for stunning panoramic views and observing the famous Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat before heading to Isabela Island to spot brilliantly pink flamingos as the sun sets.

Isabela Island is the largest of the Galapagos Archipelago, but only a small section can be visited as the island is safeguarded by the National Park and sections are totally forbidden – allowing for nature to flourish organically without human interference. The island is still commonly visited for its hiking prospects, and the tour involves a 2 hour trek to the rim of an impressive crater of about 11km in diameter that recently filled up with fresh lava flow. The next day involves a trip to Tintoreras Islet. This small island is located near to the port and is the perfect spot for walking and spotting small Galapagos penguins, sea lions and a colony of marine iguanas. Later in the day you will journey towards the well-known Tortuga Bach Beach – one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos with a combination of peaceful bays with calm waters and beaches with thunderous rough waves. The last day on your trip you will transfer to the Canal de Itabaca where you cross the straight and begin the journey back to the mainland – this involves a journey with spectacular views and landscapes and a chance for you to take in and reflect upon your trip!

Find  the Galapagos Island Hopping full itinearary at www.faralong.com

What’s more, if you sign up with Faralong with your email, you can get a nice €100 freebie spend on your tour!