A visit to the Galapagos is truly a once in a lifetime adventure and a must for any ‘bucket list.’
Saturday, November 15, 2025 – Straddling the equator off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands offer one of the world’s ultimate wildlife experiences, where animals are unique, fearless, and abundant. Unlike a traditional safari, where spotting wildlife can require hours of patience, here the animals often come to you.
Encounter blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sealions, Darwin’s finches, and many more. As well as the incredible wildlife, landscapes are otherworldly where you can hike volcanic craters and rugged cliffs, wander pristine beaches, and swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
Inspired by the families on Floreana Island and in collaboration with WWF and the Galapagos National Park, an island-hopping adventure offers a truly immersive way to explore the best of the archipelago while directly supporting local communities every step of the way. Rather than a typical cruise which can often be crowded, you get to move between islands spending meaningful time to really connect with residents like the Cruz Family. You will get to know former fishermen who have transitioned to conservation guides and learn about the archipelago’s unique human history.
Stay on Santa Cruz, Floreana, and Isabela Islands, and experience unforgettable activities such as kayaking alongside sea lions and white-tipped reef sharks in the Itabaca channel, witnessing Giant Tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat on Santa Cruz, hiking the dramatic Sierra Negra Volcano, and snorkelling with turtles and penguins at Tintoreras Islet.
Floreana Island, the first inhabited island of the archipelago and a former pirate’s lair is a place full of history and mystery, and a true Travel Differently highlight. Not only does it offer the chance to see some of the archipelago’s iconic wildlife, but it connects you with residents like Claudio Cruz who is able to share his deep knowledge of the Island and its history, providing a special insight into life of Floreana.
Best time to visit
The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination: June to November offers cooler, drier weather, while December to May brings sunshine and calmer seas. Regardless of when you go, expect countless wildlife encounters and exceptional scenery.
Top tip: Check your toiletries! Make sure your products are eco-friendly and reef-safe to help protect the islands fragile ecosystem. Cash is king and many local shops and restaurants don’t accept cards so make sure to carry small denominations of USD.
How to book
A Galapagos-Island-Hopping Adventure that offers a real Galapagos experience, away from the crowds, rich in wildlife and community interaction, and packed with unforgettable moments. Travel Differently (02073 9099 573) offers 8 days from £2,720pp and includes accommodation, transport, excursions, and private guides. Excludes international flights.
This article was published on Saturday, November 15, 2025, and costs correct at the time of publication.
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