Peter Greenberg: Galápagos Islands Tours

Our AARP Travel Expert offers advice on enjoying the rare wildlife, hiking and snorkeling in this rugged but fragile ecosystem.

by: Peter Greenberg | from: AARP | March 1, 2009

Peter, I am retired, but would like to see the Galápagos Islands. Can you recommend a trip or company appropriate for me?

–Eleanor, Lakewood, Colo.

There are many ways you can see the Galápagos Islands, which are scattered over a 200-mile area off the coast of Ecuador in South America. The most efficient sightseeing is via a sea-based excursion, but you can also take a land-based trip.

Lindblad Expeditions is the gold standard among Galápagos cruises. This company led the first non-scientific excursion to the Galápagos Islands in 1967 and continues to take tourists there today. Lindblad also works with charitable organizations to raise money to conserve the islands’ unique ecosystem.

Lindblad offers small-ship cruises that leave from Guayaquil, Ecuador, and last 10 days. The price tag includes all shore excursions, activities, and meals. Galápagos expeditions can also be combined with trips to Peru. Learn more at www.expeditions.com.

Andean Trails is a British company offering eight-day Galápagos cruises led by naturalist guides. All excursions and three meals per day are included. Ships depart from Guayaquil, and rates are about half those of Lindblad.

If you prefer exploring on land, you can fly to either Isla Baltra or San Cristóbal in the Galápagos Islands (via Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador) and stay in any number of eco-friendly hotels. Hotels can help you arrange activities, such as bird-watching, snorkeling, diving, sea kayaking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Island-hopping is possible, and Santa Cruz, Santa María (Floreana), and Isabela all have accommodations. You can get there by inter-island boat (affordable) or flight (pricier).

Bear in mind that unlike some other destinations, you actually get more bang for your buck in the Galápagos if you go on an organized tour rather than traveling independently. And remember that outdoor activities in the Galápagos require a certain level of stamina and agility, as many of the hikes require wet landings (wading on to beaches and climbing around rocks on your walks).