September 26, 2012

Child Friendly Ways to Visit the Galapagos

Amongst the most beautiful places on Earth, the Galapagos Islands are home to many natural treasures that will make them an ideal holiday destination for you and your family. Even younger children will find the region and its sights truly fascinating.

The Galapagos Islands are famous for their unique wildlife. A family trip there will give your children a rare chance to see such fascinating creatures as sea lions and iguanas in Plaza, blue-footed boobies in North Seymour, penguins at Tagus Cove and morays at Cousin’s Rock. As the animals of the Galapagos have relatively little experience with mankind, they tend not to be afraid of visitors – a perfect opportunity to see some rare animals up close.

Darwin Bay is one of the areas that is most renowned as a hotspot for animal life, particularly birds. It is also noted for its sheer, picturesque cliffs and water that is ripe for snorkelling.

Some of the most magnificent locations in the Galapagos Islands are formed by its volcanic history. Underground tunnels have been created by ancient lava flows, while magma chambers that have emptied and collapsed leave behind enormous sink craters. Pinnacle Rock on Bartolome Island was formed by volcanic ash, and the whole of Isabela Island – the largest of the Galapagos Islands – was the result of six volcanoes merging together a million years in the past.

The Galapagos Islands have great historical significance as one of the key areas that influenced Charles Darwin as he was developing his theory of evolution. A trip to the Islands could therefore be of major educational benefit to children, giving them the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the pioneering biologist.

Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Focused on the ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands, this institution runs public exhibitions in which visitors can learn more about the region’s wildlife, including the station’s own colony of captive tortoises.

Amongst the most popular pursuits amongst visitors to the Galapagos Islands are the cruises and yacht trips which will give you a first-class look at the vast, unspoilt oceans surrounding the islands. You will also be treated to the sights of the islands’ beautiful beaches, and to the fabulous seabirds of the region.

So if you are looking for a holiday destination of the utmost beauty and an experience that your children will treasure for the rest of their lives, you will not regret a visit to the Galapagos Islands.

For more information about how the Galapagos Islands can suit your family, speak to the team of experts at the Ultimate Travel Company  who can plan every detail of your trip.