Introduction

In 1831, a young naturalist by the name of Charles Darwin set sail on the HMS Beagle with intentions of adventure, exploration, and discovery. He got just that. With the voyage lasting five years, the crew visited a number of locations around the world, spending a large part of that time in South America. It was just off the coast of Ecuador in which the voyage island hopped throughout the Galapagos Islands. The young Darwin surveyed these fascinating islands in great detail and in return these islands revealed to him the foundations of the historic theory of evolution. Given the time period, Darwin’s theories about evolution and natural selection were considered quite radical so it wasn’t until 1859 when Darwin finally published On the Origin of Species. This scientific literature outlined evolutionary biology through natural selection and Darwin would reference his observations from the Galapagos Islands as support.

Darwin’s work and the Galapagos Islands are intertwined and credited to changing the course of scientific history and how we view the inhabitants of this Earth. Today, the Galapagos Islands are a hub for science, preservation, and tourism. The options for adventure in these islands seem to be endless and almost overwhelming with countless tourist groups battling for customers. This itinerary seeks to map out a sensible Galapagos voyage paying tribute to its diversity, uniqueness, and the biologist that really put these islands on the radar. Travelers should leave a comment below for any questions or input they might have about this itinerary! 

Guayaquil

Unlike Darwin, travelers will more than likely take to the skies rather than setting sail to reach their destination. Travelers will have to choose between two main Ecuadorian cities (Guayaquil or Quito) to pass through on their way to the Galapagos Islands. Both are viable options but as our main focus is reaching the Galapagos Islands, Guayaquil is the best option as it is considered the gateway to the Galapagos. Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city, main port city, and just a two hour flight from the Galapagos Islands. Guayaquil is the perfect layover city for travelers to acclimate to the new environment and rest from long flights but this doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities for adventure within the city. Travelers should consider spending a half a day or full day in this growing city adding the Malecón 2000, Las Peñas, and Parque Histórico to their list of potential spots. These three attractions all come highly recommended and are free keeping this leg of the journey budget friendly.

The Malecón 2000 is an extensive boardwalk that stretches along the Guayas river. Here you will find monuments, food stands, and other tourists strolling along the water. This boardwalk was part of a major urban renewal project to energize the area and create a space for citizens and tourists to enjoy Guayaquil. At the end of the Malecón 2000, you will find Las Peñas, a colorful neighborhood sitting upon a rocky hill. Be prepared to climb the many stairs as you explore this ancient colonial neighborhood and stop by some of the many small shops. Las Peñas is a historic part of the city of Guayaquil that has stood for many years and at the top sits a lighthouse offering some of the best views of the city. The Parque Histórico is another great place travelers should visit if there is time. This park is unique combining three elements of Guayaquil culture: the wildlife, urban life, and rural life. Each section provides knowledge on the importance and historical significance of each area. Hopefully travelers come away more knowledgeable of Guayaquil and the Ecuadorian culture as they make the leap to the Galapagos. 

San Cristóbal

The island of San Cristóbal was actually the Beagle’s first landing spot in the Galapagos so naturally it should be ours too. When Darwin first stepped foot on the island he found himself a bit surprised due to the arid environment as he expected a tropical oasis. Nonetheless, Darwin surveyed and observed as much as he could on this island collecting specimens and taking notes. The specimens Darwin collected here on this island would go on to spark his initial thoughts for the theory of evolution. San Cristóbal is a fascinating island being one of the oldest of the Galapagos and the only one to have fresh water. Once travelers touchdown in San Cristóbal, they will find a more relaxed and small island feel with the airport just minutes from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the Galapagos. Despite having less hustle and bustle compared to the island of Santa Cruz, travelers will find San Cristóbal still has a lot to offer in terms of adventure.

Travelers should explore the island of San Cristóbal just as Darwin did in his time. I would suggest making the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center the first stop as it is a great introduction to this island with tons of educational information. The Interpretation Center highlights the scientific and historical significance of the Galapagos and maintains well traveled paths for visitors to explore. At this location, visitors will observe some of the famous wildlife of the Galapagos and see some spectacular views. Travelers should also plan on visiting the Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado which is home to the famous Giant Tortoises. Originally, when Darwin first arrived the crew would capture them for food. Today, these giant tortoises are highly protected and studied with many similar breeding conservatories throughout the islands. 

Besides some of the adventures that San Cristóbal offers on land, the Galapagos is also a hotspot for some of the best snorkeling the world has to offer. If travelers are up for this adventure they should book a day event to Kicker Rock where a boat will take travelers to the volcanic remains. This rock formation was sure to grab Darwin’s attention as it will yours as it towers over the Pacific Ocean and diverse life thrives underneath and on top of Kicker Rock. Keep an eye out for the Blue-Footed Boobies, Frigatebirds, and many more. After throwing on your snorkeling gear, be on the watch for sea turtles, sea lions, and various other reef residents under the sea. For a more detailed explanation of this day trip and what to expect, be sure to visit Nature Galapagos here.

If there is time, travelers should plan a day trip to one of the other islands of the Galapagos. The best island suggested for a day trip from the eastern San Cristóbal is the island of Española. There are plenty of tours that provide a full experience to the southernmost island. Although Darwin never set foot on this island, he spent time surveying the coast. Had he set foot here, Darwin surely would have been blown away. Each island of the Galapagos has its very own unique and diverse biome of life, and Española is no exception. On this island, travelers will find creatures such as albatross, marine iguanas, sea lions, lava lizards, and many more. Galapagos Last Minute has options for day trips from San Cristóbal to Española. It is quite extraordinary just how much there is to see in this small pocket of Earth and even Darwin himself was only able to set foot on four islands of the Galapagos. If travelers prefer to bounce around to as many islands as possible there are many cruises available for just that purpose but if you prefer to travel at your own pace feel free to use our suggestions!