Galapagos Islands Travel Information
- These subtropical islands are the meeting place for the warm El Nino Current and the cold Humboldt Current. This means the weather is never really too bad. From June to December the water remains cooler, but temperatures never creep too far above 80 degrees or too far below 60 degrees. December to May is considered the warm season, and temperatures can reach into the 90s. Water temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities, and the islands typically get a daily rain shower.
- This island offers four different hotels for those who would rather remain on land. Staying on Santa Cruz Island has its advantages, according to Galapagosislands.com, because many of the major tourist attractions can be accessed at Santa Cruz. That includes the Charles Darwin Research Center, the Galapagos tortoises and the lava tunnels in the highlands. Tourists can also scuba dive, snorkel and beach hop.
- The islands are known for their unique volcanic geology, rich flora and the diversity of animal species, according to Galapagosislands.com. Because of this unique ecosystem, there are many conservation efforts on the islands. For that reason, the Galapagos Islands National Park has rules, including no outside food or animals allowed, no handling of native animals and restrictions on souvenirs made of materials that are naturally occurring on the islands.
- The Galapagos have two airports on the islands of Baltra and San Cristobal. Aerogal and Tame are the two airlines that serve the Galapagos Islands. There are at least three flights to the Galapagos every day, which originate from either Quito or Guayaquil in Ecuador. According to Galapagosislands.com, the flight prices are at their lowest during the low seasons, from May 1 to June 14 and from September 15 to October 31.
- Information provided by Galapagosislands.com shows that cruises are offered on a weekly basis via luxury, first-class and midrange yachts and sailboats. The boats cruise the islands, but only the largest luxury cruisers hold more than 48 people. Visitors can snorkel and scuba dive (on selected ships) and also enjoy other on-ship amenities. Some ships offer special deals, including free air transportation from Ecuador with a cruise purchase.