Embarking on the journey from Quito to San Cristobal, my senses were heightened with anticipation as I ventured into the heart of the Galapagos archipelago. As a travel agent, this visit to San Cristobal is not just a personal expedition; it’s a vital exploration to ensure that my clients find the perfect trip. Witnessing the harmonious coexistence of diverse marine life reinforces the importance of crafting journeys that immerse travelers in the unparalleled beauty and ecological wonders of the Galapagos. It’s about offering an experience that transcends expectations and fosters a profound connection with this extraordinary destination.
San Cristobal with its huge colony of sea lions welcomed me, and I started this great adventure. The 360 Tour, unveiled a mesmerizing spectacle beneath the waves of Kicker Rock, where sharks glided gracefully, turtles navigated the currents, and playful sea lions danced around me. Another highlight was Tijeretas Hill, an amazing viewpoint to admire this incredible paradise while you see the typical vegetation and some finches on the trees. A personal adventure and challenge as cycling lover was riding to the Highlands of San Cristobal to visit El Junco Lagoon from where the island´s fresh water comes from and relax and rest in one of the most beautiful beaches in this island, Puerto Chino with turquoise water where sea lions welcomed me at my arrival.
Venturing from San Cristobal to Floreana during 2 hours by speedboat, I delved into the island’s rich history. The Highlands unveiled tales of pirates and the first inhabitants, their stories woven into the fabric of the lush landscapes. Snorkeling at Black Beach, surrounded by the gentle presence of turtles, created a symbiotic dance with nature, a moment of serenity amid the island’s historical echoes. The cozy hotel has an amazing ocean view to enjoy the sunset, from the beach or the balcony of your room. This was such a relaxed moment after a day full of adventure!
On the next day, after a delicious breakfast with muchines (tasty cassava balls made with yuca, traditional dish found in the Coastal region), I left to Isabela island, the most pristine inhabited island.
I chose to explore Tintoreras beckoned with white-tip reef sharks, graceful turtles, majestic rays and luckily penguins accompanied us in this adventure.
The hike to the Sulfur Mines was a mind blowing experience. This amazing and new site to visit is in the highlands of Isabela. The landscape was incredible while I was crossing the valley, the vegetation changed and suddenly, I felt like being in another planet, the landscape starts to be full of big rocks, yellow stones, and sand. Then just looking up and there are fumaroles with yellow colour in the surroundings. No words, just vibrating with this unique landscape.
Exploring the Sulfur Mines and marveling at the vibrant Flamingos Lagoon added layers to the Galapagos experience, showcasing the archipelago’s geological and biological diversity.
Inspecting the hotels selected for my clients became paramount in ensuring their comfort and connection with the destination. From boutique retreats to eco-friendly lodges, each accommodation is meticulously chosen to complement the unique charm of the Galapagos, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Traversing from Isabela to Santa Cruz, the journey continued into the highlands, where giant tortoises roamed freely,
a living testament to the archipelago’s commitment to conservation. The tour to Bartolome, scaling the wooden staircase to the summit, I was rewarded with panoramic views of otherworldly landscapes, a testament to the archipelago’s volcanic heritage; and then Sullivan Bay unfolded with surreal landscapes of pahoehoe lava formations, offering a glimpse into the volcanic tapestry that shapes the Galapagos.
There is one site that it´s new to visit, so I went to experience it. Pinzon, La Fe is a snorkeling day tour, being one of the favorite ones nowadays. La Fe is a paradisiac spot with turquoise water, here I swam with playful sea lions, rays, baby Galapagos sharks, sea turtles and marine iguanas. Afterwards, the next stop was Pinzon, amazing site to see colony of colourful fishes, sea stars, and white tip reef sharks. Such an amazing day! I do recommend you if your preference is snorkeling!
In every step of this extraordinary expedition, the Galapagos revealed itself as a destination where the past converges with the present, and nature’s marvels embrace the curious traveler in a dance of discovery.
