A trip to the Galápagos has long been the epitome of a bucket list experience, as it gives travelers the chance to observe marine and land animals in a pure environment. That said, planning a trip to the Galápagos can be a little intimidating, what with the paperwork, coordinating transportation, and choosing the right boat for the trip. Good news, though: working with a company like INCA (International Nature and Cultural Adventures) can help ease a lot of those stressors because they take care of everything for you.

The experts at INCA pride themselves on their ability to perfect a detailed itinerary for people looking to travel to the Galapagos and get the most out of their trip. For many, this is a once in a lifetime dream vacation, so it’s important to fit in everything you want to do and see. The family-operated business has been running since the 1970s, so they know the many moving parts when it comes to planning a Galapagos adventure, including the National Park entrance fee ($100), emergency medical and evacuation coverage ($22), and Ecuador’s Transit Control Tax ($20) to name a few.

So, having friendly faces and helpful staff to walk you through the process and help you in person at the airport is a relief.

Getting There

INCA assists all guests going on board the Integrity in either Quito or Guayaquil with a quick overnighter to make sure everyone is on the mainland, ready to take the flight to Baltra the following day. After an overnight stay in Hotel Wyndham Guayaquil (or similar accommodations in Quito) an INCA team member will pick you up from the lobby and transport you to the airport where you will fly with EQUAIR into the Baltra airport in the Galapagos Islands.

Upon arrival, Integrity travelers will relax in the VIP lounge while the baggage is checked and cleared. Next, the group heads into the national park, where a bus takes everyone to the Itabaca Canal to board a small boat to the highlands in Santa Cruz. The wildlife discovery and tours begin the day you arrive, starting with the giant tortoises and exploring the Charles Darwin Research Station.

In addition to some fun activities on the first day, the group will try on wetsuits before enjoying a quick lunch in town with waterfront views of sea lions, pelicans, baby sharks, marine iguanas, and colorful crabs. After a day of adventure, the group will board the boat for the first time that is anchored in Academy Bay.

Before you unpack, the naturalist will go through what the tour is going to look like, what you can expect to see, safety, briefings, and room assignments. From there, after dinner, you’ll have plenty of time to unpack and relax, letting the boat rock you to sleep. The Eastern Island itinerary that they set up definitely packs in a lot of activity from hiking, swimming, kayaking, climbing, and more, keeping you feeling great throughout the trip.

What’s on Board

The Integrity is a luxury yacht that is the centerpiece of a customized experience that can host as many as 16 people. INCA and this vessel collaborate to give guests the best accommodations in addition to the adventure-packed itineraries. Each room boasts its own bathroom and plenty of space to move around, in addition to powerful air conditioning, which is wonderful to come back to you after a day of hiking. There are also TVs so you can put on a movie to fall asleep to at the end of the evening.

The dining room is elegant, and you get to take in views of the islands or the ocean as you enjoy healthy meals like fresh fish and homemade soups. The top deck has plenty of space for lounging and relaxing, in addition to a hot tub to unwind in at the end of the evening. They also offer laundry services for all guests, which is great if you’re trying to pack light and want to re-wear some pieces.

In addition to providing a luxurious place to stay and rest as you travel through the Galápagos Islands, the staff cares a lot about sustainability and the environment. The company separates waste into recyclable objects, non-recyclable objects, hazardous material, and organic items. The staff is even trained to understand environmental issues.

The crew is also passionate about creating healthy dishes, with plenty of fresh vegetables, beans, mashed potatoes, lean red meat, fresh fish, chicken, and desserts like fresh fruit with a sprinkle of chocolate. The breakfast buffet offers scrambled eggs, waffles, pancakes, fruit (like fresh papaya), sausage, bacon, plenty of juices, and cereals. The lunches are nice and light, similar to dinners, generally with lean protein and fresh veggies, with some kind of carb to keep you fueled and feeling great for the next adventure.

The itinerary will vary a bit based on the destination—this particular trip reflects stops along the Eastern Route—but expect early wake-up calls to seize the day before the heat gets too strong. Generally, the day starts around 5:30 AM with breakfast at 6 AM, heading out for activities bright and early. Each day consists of at least one hike and snorkel, in addition to other activities. In the evening, the group has dinner together, and the naturalist will go over what is to be expected the next day. He explains what the terrain is like, what to expect during the hike, what animals you might see, how long it will take, and he is more than happy to address any comments or questions you have.

Where You’ll Go

Santa Cruz Island: Exploring the Rainforest Highlands means unpredictable weather, so plan to have protection for your camera gear, a raincoat or poncho, and proper footwear for the day you arrive. Santa Cruz is the place to see a wide variety of plant species and tortoises snacking on guava and passionfruit. After seeing the tortoises, the group will head to Puerto Ayora to have lunch before visiting the Charles Darwin Research Center. With a day of exploring in the books, you’ll head onto the yacht to settle in for the evening, go through the safety briefing, and talk about the upcoming adventures.

Española: On day two of the eastern itinerary, you’ll stop in Española, particularly Gardner Bay in the morning. This area has a beautiful, white sand beach with crystal clear bright teal water. You’ll see plenty of seals lounging in the sun or running towards the water. After walking along the beach, guests will then prepare for the first snorkel. This is more of a low-key snorkel in a very calm area, so that the naturalist can gauge how strong of a swimmer the group members are and give you a taste of what you can expect to see coming up. We also played with a group of seals and saw plenty of colorful fish and turtles.

Later in the day, you will stop in Punta Suárez for a hike over rocky terrain to spot sea birds. This is your time to see the waved albatross birds, that can be observed between April and November. There’s even a chance to see their famous mating dance. This is also a great opportunity to see marine iguanas and other colorful birds like blue footed boobies.

San Cristóbal: The morning begins with a trip to Punta Pitt, a small beach that leads to a climbing hike to spectacular views of the island where you might get the chance to see all three booby birds, in addition to other wildlife. You can see mountain goats strolling along the hilltops, while down on the beach, seals play in the water with you while you take a dip after the hike to cool off.

After a morning hike, the group will get ready for a snorkeling adventure. Anything can happen, from playing with seals to swimming through schools of colorful fish. Guests will also have a little downtime before heading back to the boat for lunch and setting sail for Cerro Brujo. From there, the group takes a walk on the coral sand beach, watching shore birds dive down rapidly to catch fish while the sun sets in the distance.

Santa Fé and South Plaza: In the morning we arrived at Santa Fé to go for a hike on a white beach covered with sea lions and iguanas. We observed the Opuntia cactus and discovered many creatures before heading out to snorkel in the turquoise waters with plenty of fish, sharks, turtles, and more. There’s also an opportunity to kayak in the morning, and those who don’t want to kayak can explore the cliffs along the shore from the panga boat. In the afternoon, the boat anchors in South Plaza, where we see seven more land iguanas and a variety of birds, including the legendary finches.

Genovesa: In the morning, the group stops at Darwin Beach to explore the bird species. The beach appeared due to a sunken crater, and it is covered with a wide variety of birds from herons and warblers to red footed boobies and frigatebirds with the red pouch puffed up. The group will snorkel at least once a day, playing with seals and looking for hidden gems in all the cracks and crevices of the rocks and reefs for lobsters, eels, and other surprises.

We visited two snorkeling spots in this location, one that generally has hammerhead and Galapagos sharks, as well as huge schools of rays in deep water, and another location with much calmer water with fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. In the afternoon, the group hikes up Prince Phillip’s Steps to see colonies of booby birds—look for short-eared owls and watch the storm petrels whip through the air in the Palo Santo Forest.

Santiago and Bartolomé: In the morning, the group stops at Sullivan Bay in Santiago to explore the young lava flow and rock formations. After the hike, head out for the first snorkel of the day, where you can potentially see seals fishing in the water, white tip reef sharks, and maybe even some Galapagos penguins. In the afternoon, the boat anchors at Bartolomé, right near the famous Pinnacle Rock. A panga ride is next, on which you can see penguins along the shore before hiking to the very top of the island to take an incredible view of the bay, Santiago Island, Daphne Major and Minor, and of course, the sunset.

Rábida and Sombrero Chino: On Rábida, the day begins very early, as the group lands on a red beach first thing in the morning. As the lagoon came into view, speckles of hot pink appeared all throughout the water. There were so many bright, beautiful flamingos in the lagoon, in addition to incredible plant life.

The day was full of snorkeling excursions, where the group found a variety of stunning fish like the hieroglyphic hawkfish and the scorpion fish, among other marine life like sea turtles, white tip reef sharks, seals, and much more. In the afternoon, the boat anchored in the turquoise waters of Sombrero Chino. The snorkeling there is phenomenal, with turtles, eels, huge schools of fish, and other surprises.

We were extremely lucky to swim with Galapagos penguins, as they darted and dived around us, catching fish. We laughed joyfully underwater, taking it all in. It was the perfect way to end our snorkeling adventures. The day ends with a walk on the beach, taking views of the lava rock, before heading to Baltra to disembark the following day. With so many beautiful places to explore on this planet, the Galapagos Islands make for a truly special destination.

The bold wildlife, with seals looking you in the eye, blue footed booby birds walking with the group along the trail, penguins darting in front of you underwater, just as curious about you, as you are of them. The Integrity, INCA, and Greg Estes, our incredible guide, made this trip one for the books.

The post Let the Experts Plan Your First Epic Adventure to the Galapagos Islands appeared first on Islands.

Some trips just stick with you, leaving you in a state of shock. Rapa Nui, Easter Island’s indigenous name, is a historical wonder that does just that with its beauty, history, and myriad stories, not to mention the mystery that keeps historians and curious travelers wondering how the moai were transported back in the 10th-16th centuries, as they were being created by talented artists.

The Polynesian society dates back to c. A.D. 300 and the architecture and sculpting of the moai—stone figures meant to act as a look inside their society—is what really makes Easter Island special. In fact, to this day more shrines and statues are being discovered, with the latest being unearthed earlier this year.

Flights from Easter Island are limited and fill up quickly, so plan accordingly and buy your tickets well in advance. The flights leave from Santiago, Chile, so plan to give yourself at least a day or two in the capital city, enjoying everything it has to offer, before heading to the legendary island.

Where to Stay in Santiago

Sheraton Santiago Hotel & Convention Center

v. Sta. María 1742, 7500000 Santiago, Providencia, Región Metropolitana, Chile

The Sheraton Santiago Hotel and Convention Center is just a short trip to the airport in Providencia, putting you in a convenient location that also happens to be near some of the city’s best restaurants and entertainment. The rooms are incredibly comfortable, and the hotel offers amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, both indoor and outdoor pools, flatscreen TVs, and all the comforts of home.

Santiago Marriott Hotel

v. Pdte. Kennedy 5741, 7560356 Las Condes, Región Metropolitana, Chile

The Santiago Marriott Hotel is another ideal place to stay, located five minutes from the tour company Turistik, as well as restaurants and shopping. However, the main attraction here might be the views of the Andes. There’s an outdoor pool to relax in on warmer days and a great in-house restaurant called the Latin Grill, which offers delicious dishes like a perfectly cooked rack of lamb with an herb and hazelnut crust, king crab, and seafood soup loaded with squid, shrimp, scallops, mussels, and herbs.

What to Do in Santiago

While in Santiago, Turistik offers full day tours and transportation to famous sites throughout Santiago. The Hop On Hop Off bus tour is available to do on your own or to book with a private guide if you prefer. (I worked with Jacqueline and she was phenomenal.) It really helps to have someone show you around. Ride the Santiago Cable Car to the top of Cerro San Cristóbal to take in beautiful views of the city and the mountains before riding the heritage elevator, which descends via the Santiago Funicular. See significant sites and street art along the way, with panoramic views on the bus, and visit the cathedral to climb up to the bell tower.

Another great option is Tour por Viña Cousiño Macul & Templo Bahai. This takes guests to one of the most outstanding architectural sites in Santiago: the Baha’i House of Worship. After visiting the temple, practicing quiet meditation inside and strolling through the gardens, the group then heads to Viña Cousiño Macul, one of the oldest wineries within the Maipo Valley. You’ll tour the family-owned establishment, tasting some of the delicious wines and exploring the vineyard along the way.

On to Easter Island

When planning your trip to Easter Island from Santiago, it’s crucial to have a tour guide. Having the help of an experienced operator that knows what they’re doing, as well as a tour guide that can take you to the best locations to view the moai while explaining the history, makes a world of difference. SA Expeditions is a well-known, U.S.-based tour operator. They create customized tours, based on particular interests, all over the world, including Easter Island.

SA Expeditions is passionate about creating personalized itineraries that cater to the guest’s specific needs, so working with Riva and Matt at SA Expeditions on what was important to me on the trip—from getting the rare Rapa Nui passport stamp to a sunrise experience at Tongariki—was extremely helpful. They customized an itinerary that allowed me to see everything I wanted to see and more.

Where to Stay

Hotel Altiplanico Rapa Nui, Easter Island—Valparaíso, Chile

Upon arrival, SA Expeditions set up a private transfer from the airport to the lodging on Easter Island at Hotel Altiplanico Rapa Nui, a local boutique hotel. The hotel offers a canopy bed inside a private bungalow, in addition to a huge outdoor rainfall shower, patio overlooking the Pacific Ocean, dining room with specialty dishes, small outdoor pool, gardens, and more. It’s so peaceful and relaxing—truly, the perfect place to unplug.

While staying at the hotel, guests can also enjoy the fantastic on-site dining option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The beautiful views of the ocean pair nicely with dishes like purple gnocchi with a creamy garlic shrimp sauce.

What to Do

Spend the afternoon visiting Ahu Akivi, where you can see the gigantic figure sculptures, the moai, facing towards the ocean. The seven statues, all uniform in size, point towards the Pacific Ocean on the coast.

Take a walk on the white coral sand beach, Anakena Beach, or dive into the ocean on a hot day to cool off. There are several statues to see at Anakena, including a singular moai and a row of seven moai at Ahu Nao-Nao. These were created by Rapa Nui ancestors between 1250 and 1500. Many of the statues can still be found at the quarry.

Along the eastern side of the island, among the historical ancient temples, the quarry is filled with fallen and partially buried moai, as well as figure statues. Visitors can expect to see nearly 20 moai at once at this location. It’s a truly special place and a great area to take it all in and really pay attention to the detail in these magnificent statues. It is also said that this is the site where the first ruler of the island, Rano Raraku, was buried.

It’s hard to describe the magnificent views that come with exploring the Rano Kau Crater. Overlooking the crater, you see water and greenery, with views of the Pacific in the background. The volcano lies dormant and was created through lava flow. This is a great place to discuss the history of the Tangata Manu (aka the Birdman Competition) and observe the ancient stone village, Orongo. The iconic contest featured men competing to find the first manutara bird egg of the season and bring it back safely to gain power and status.

Tongariki is the famous site to see 15 moai statues, lined up, with an incredible ocean backdrop. For the perfect last activity of your trip, head here in the morning while it’s still dark to watch the sun rise over the bay behind the sculptures.

Where to Eat

When seeking a light lunch, Rano Café has plenty of delicious dishes to enjoy. A tuna ceviche bowl with a few slices of fresh, local sweet potato is an awesome dish. For a quick stop and a treat to go, the empanadas at Panaderia Y Pasteleria Hitu are fantastic. The smell hits you the second you walk in the door of the freshly made, fried dough being rolled out right in front of you. The empanadas are stuffed with everything from chicken and cheese to fresh octopus, and they also have a variety of desserts in the display case.

Te Moai Sunset offers dinner with a terrific view of the sunset. As you’re taking in the vibrant red and orange shades, you can sip on cocktails and fill up on fresh fish dishes. For international cuisine, mixed with a Rapa Nui influence and traditional Polynesian dishes, Neptunes Island is a great spot. They create some truly special meals, combining fun flavors with a beautiful ambience and ocean view.

The post Everything You Need to Know about Visiting Easter Island for the First Time appeared first on Islands.

It wasn’t until he laid eyes on a Buc-ee’s billboard somewhere on I-75 that my five-year-old son first uttered those words that parents dread: “Are we there yet?” For as thrilled as he’d been to embark on his first road trip, the boy’s patience started wearing thin around the fourth hour of our journey, but we assured him that a vacation experience unlike anything he’d ever imagined was so close that he’d probably be there before his next Scooby Doo movie concluded.

We’d had our eyes on Reynolds Lake Oconee for a change of pace vacation destination as far back as 2019, but other than what our friends in Atlanta had told us about their favorite staycation spot, we didn’t know what to expect. We’ve always been an island family, and our son has already been to the Bahamas more times than I had by age 18. So, when we started planning a getaway to this almost mystical community, set between Atlanta and Augusta, we first had to not only convince our beach boy that life on the lake is just as good as the Caribbean Sea, but also that a six-hour road trip could be as pleasant and convenient as a one-hour flight.

Gulp.

Even Mary Kay Ash would have struggled to close this deal, but we assured him with every “are we there yet?” that he was in store for something truly special. Little did we know that we were, too.

Every Moment Feels Like a First Impression

The first thing you’ll notice about Reynolds Lake Oconee, other than the old school, My Cousin Vinny vibe of taking a two-lane road into town, is the landscaping. There’s not a square-inch of this community that doesn’t rival Walt Disney World in terms of colorful flowers and impeccably maintained shrubbery. It’s no wonder why the Instagram account pays tribute to the artists responsible for maintaining the natural beauty of the region.

As beautiful and serene as it all seems, it’s all still packed with so much character, charm, and energy. One of the things I love most about visiting new places in the Caribbean and Mexico is meeting people and learning about the history of their cities, and this was no different. Well, other than the fact that it’s a far quicker flight and I don’t need a passport. But this is a place that was chosen as one family’s retreat more than 100 years ago, so it’s almost poetic how it has grown into one of the best all-ages vacation spots on the East Coast, if not in the entire U.S.

From the shopping areas and restaurants to the golf courses and sporting grounds, you’d be hard-pressed to find one spot that doesn’t elicit first-sight gasps or utterances of “Wow” and, for me, “Holy moly.” It’s not so much a concept designed to make people want to return year after year, as much as it’s one that was conceived to make us never want to leave.

An Overwhelming Sense of Familiarity

At the heart of this vacation experience is a very familiar name: The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. It’s undoubtedly a brand we’ve all come to expect the best from, but at the same time this is not your typical Ritz. At least it doesn’t feel like one. When you check into this sprawling lakeside retreat, it feels like someone took a summer camp, mixed it with a country club, and added a dash of ski lodge. It’s… amazing.

One knock on this property that we’d heard ahead of this visit was how the pool was too small for so many families, so we had a hearty laugh when we learned that we were a week early for the grand opening of the brand-spanking-new family pool. The greatest cliché we hear in the travel industry is “they’ve thought of everything,” but this Ritz really has, and there’s an overwhelming sense of pride in that—especially with the way employees go out of the way in making young guests feel like the most important people on the planet.

We saw it every step of the way—little snacks delivered to the room, servers “sneaking” kids extra treats, hotel staff stopping on a dime to help teach a child who has never held a fishing pole how to catch his first catfish (he caught six in an hour!). And that’s what makes this entire community feel like a home away from home, even for first timers.

It’s not an artificial warmth with a forced smile. This is immense pride in a bigger picture, and it shows in every element. The best example occurred when I was having dinner at the National Tavern. In between sampling the phenomenal whiskey menu (the pecan old-fashioned is one of the best cocktails I’ve ever sipped) and devouring the signature char-grilled pork chop (with a grit cake and chili corn relish that I can still taste weeks later) I silently marveled at how this restaurant was packed with residents who’d simply arrived for dinner and cocktails, but turned the evening into one giant party simply because Harris English and Kramer Hickok ended up in a playoff for the ages at the Travelers Championship.

If it feels like everyone knows each other, it might be because they do, but it’s more likely because Reynolds Lake Oconee makes everyone happy to be there and appreciate their surroundings. And the way that they include complete strangers in the fun is as special as it is generous.

This is Way More than a Golf Destination

If you tell someone that you’re visiting Reynolds Lake Oconee, there’s a good chance they’ll mention golf. With six absolutely amazing courses (five public and one that we can only play as members or, more likely, in our dreams) and the mind-blowing Kingdom of Golf, you should expect to have that conversation; however, it shouldn’t limit expectations for anyone who doesn’t play. And while I didn’t think it was possible, there’s one element that possibly outshines the links and maybe everything: the Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds.

Describing just how massive this whole community is feels impossible—it’s huge. HUGE! Almost as if it’s the first place on Earth and the rest of the world has yet to be built around it. So, when you consider all of the neighborhoods, the Ritz-Carlton property, every golf course, and obviously the water, it’s impossible to imagine there could be much else. But set within 100 acres of forests, hills, and even more water is this showcase of outdoor adventure that is guaranteed to turn even the biggest city slicker into Wyatt Earp.

Led by director, designer, and international shooting champion Justin Jones and bolstered by a spectacular crew that features a legitimate superstar in Jasper Copeland, the Chief Shooting Instructor, the sporting grounds pushes this destination over the top in terms of not only excitement and adventure, but also possibilities. It’s not every day that we choose places that offer clay shooting courses and games, archery, and fishing, especially not with a team of instructors as friendly and especially patient as this.

But the absolute cherry on top is the off-road course that takes guests on a unique tour of the surrounding natural beauty—on a well-designed course, naturally—in a Land Rover Discovery or the new and thrilling Jeep Rubicon vehicles that the staff was especially eager to show off when I visited.

For family getaways, bachelor or bachelorette parties, milestone birthdays and celebrations, or, heck, even a destination fantasy football draft, this is a next-level experience that takes some people out of their element, in the best way possible, and introduces them to unbridled excitement. For others who are more familiar with these activities, it provides new challenges.

And for everyone, it means new memories. A true win-win scenario.

The post Reynolds Lake Oconee Ascends the Throne as the Ultimate Vacation Playground appeared first on Islands.

Afloat in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriqui is Isla Palenque, a 400-acre, all-inclusive private-island resort that promises visitors a back-to-nature break from everyday stress. Here are five reasons you should consider adding it to your list this winter.

It isn’t easy to get to

This sounds counterintuitive but bear with me. Because sometimes, when you really need to get away, a two-hour non-stop flight just isn’t enough distance from the real world to totally detach and relax. 

From the U.S. East Coast, it takes a lot more effort to reach this vacation nirvana. Coming from Miami, I took a three-hour Copa Airlines flight into Panama City (where I chose to overnight, but you don’t have to) and then an hour-long flight to the city of David. From there it was another hour’s drive to Boca Chica, on the gulf of Chiriqui, where we boarded Isla Palenque’s launch for the 15-minute ride to the resort.

But trust me when I tell you that the moment I stepped onto the pier (where a retinue of the island’s staff were waiting to meet us); took in the sight of spindly palm trees sprouting from the black-sand beach; and then a hearty swig of a fruity welcome cocktail, the hours it took to get there were forgotten. Not only did I instantly feel as if I was a world away from the realities of my day-to-day, I took comfort in the fact that I really was!

You’ll have your own casita

Tucked into the tropical greenery that borders Isla Palenque’s beach are eight thatch-roofed, a-frame villas, each named for authors who wrote books about islands, and one of which you’ll call your own. Simply yet comfortably appointed (with low-slung wood furniture handmade on property) and blissfully air-conditioned, these are the digs Robinson Crusoe would have built if he had better tools and supplies. 

For me, the highlight was the outdoor bathroom (bathing al fresco is my jam) with two showers; double sinks; and, in the garden, a cast-iron soaking tub. I’ve no problem with answering the call of nature in … well … nature. But if flashlight-lit nighttime bathroom runs aren’t your thing, better stop drinking early in the evening, because the toilet’s outside, too.

You’ll get a window on wildlife

If, like me, your experience with wildlife is mostly limited to watching it on TV, you’re in for a treat. Secreted within Palenque’s tropical forest are all manner of animals and birds that screech and hoot in the night, and the waters surrounding the island teem with marine species. Catfish, snook, jack and roosterfish are plentiful, and you’re practically guaranteed to come back from a fishing trip with a decent haul. 

From August through October, humpback whales and their calves can be spotted about a 30-minute boat ride from the resort, and guests with eagle eyes (and a good measure of luck) will see them breeching during private or group whale watching tours. (Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, too). 

On land, armadillos, anteaters, and raccoons shuffle about in the undergrowth beyond the resort (which occupies only a tiny part of the island). And you can get up close and personal with them on (included) hikes led by Isla Palenque’s experience coordinator, José Chavarria. But it was the howler monkeys that caught my attention quickest. 

You hear them most in the early morning and evening, barking loudly and insistently like disgruntled dogs on your doorstep, although they may be as far as three miles away. The primates sound huge but, if you manage to see one, you realize that they’re actually quite small—about the size of cat—with big personalities and even bigger vocal cords. Brings earplugs or prepare to wake up early!

The food is superb

I expected fresh fruit and fish, of course. But on an island this isolated from the mainland, I certainly didn’t expect the variety I enjoyed on my four-day trip. The island’s chefs—all local talents—wowed us with Panamanian dishes that were inventively prepared and beautifully presented, taking advantage of the bounty from the resort’s own kitchen garden and micro farm. 

From “Palenque Benedict” (poached eggs with homemade jerky and sofrito hollandaise on tortillas) to chilled beetroot soup with yogurt foam and orange zest to seafood rice with sofrito, cream and gouda cheese, every meal was a delight. Gluten-free and vegetarian options were plentiful and desserts irresistible. I devoured my weight in soursop sorbet and don’t feel even a tiny bit guilty.

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword

At Isla Palenque, they walk the talk when it comes to sustainability, and the resort is remarkably self-sufficient. On the culinary front, 95 percent of the F&B is either farmed on grown on property (tours of the garden are welcome), the only exceptions being olive oil, wine, and scotch. Toiletries are locally made, and straws are fashioned from the hollow stems of papaya plants, also grown at the resort. 

The staff of 40 people is 99 percent Panamanian, many of them from the local area. And the roster of included activities—from jewelry making to rum tasting and Panamanian cooking to guided hikes that reveal relics from more than 2,000 years ago-–acknowledge and celebrate the country’s unique culture and traditions. 

The result: A vacation at Isla Palenque is one you can feel good about, because while you’re enjoying your stay, the community is reaping tangible benefits from it, too.

The post Five Reasons to Make Isla Palenque Your Next Private Island Getaway appeared first on Islands.

Costa Rica packs adventure into every corner, from the rainforest to the ocean. It’s hard to go wrong in this eco-paradise that offers a surfeit of hiking, surfing, day-trip tours, and more—however, there are a handful of experiences that combine the beauty of this destination with once-in-a-lifetime magic. 

Here are our top picks on what not to miss during your next trip to Costa Rica.

Witness Sea Turtles Giving Birth

With coasts on two oceans, Costa Rica offers twice as many opportunities for witnessing the magic of sea turtles laying eggs. Arguably the best place is the Las Baulas Marine National Park on the Nicoya Peninsula, part of Guanacaste Province—because there it’s possible to watch leatherbacks, the largest sea turtle species at up to six feet in length. This experience is offered seasonally, October 20 and February 15, with the peak falling December to January. 

For an organized night tour, make reservations through the Local Guide Association, organized through the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE).

Scuba Dive with Hammerhead Sharks

Costa Rica’s Cocos Island is famous the world over for being one of three destinations on the planet where scalloped hammerheads school by the dozens. This outpost isle—the inspiration for Michael Crichton’s Jurassic Park—lies 340 miles offshore, making it beyond the reach of day boats. 

Rather, companies such as Aggressor Adventures offer both four- and 10-night sailings to this magical destination; guests sleep and eat aboard their yachts during the trip, relying on zodiacs to zip to dive sites as well as to shore to access hiking trails. Can’t swing the expense? Day trips to the Bat Islands are offered by other operators. While you won’t likely see hammerheads, sightings of bull sharks and schools of jacks are common in these islands.

White-water Raft a Class IV River

This destination has steep mountains and enough rainfall April to November to make for some thrilling kayaking and rafting. Costa Rica is home to 14 main rivers, with almost a dozen offering commercial trips. The Rio Toro—in English, the Bull River—delivers Class III and IV rapids through the heart of the green interior. Most guides double as comedians, keeping the mood light while keeping you safe—and lifting you back into the boat by your PFD after you hop into the latte-colored water to cool off. 

Travelers can have a dialed-down experience with the Class I and II Penas Blancas river or commit to a bigger adventure by booking a multi-day trip on the Class III and IV Sarapiqui River.

Meet a Sloth

Surely the inspiration for Jim Henson’s muppets, sloths can’t help but delight with their stick-like, often outstretched arms and their comically slow speeds. In the town of Limon on the Caribbean coast, the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica welcomes visitors for two-hour insider tours of the 320-acre site. 

Guests join workers as they feed their rescued sloths, many of which were taken in after being harmed by the electric wires brought in following new construction. Tours are educational and include time wherein the sanctuary workers hold and interact with the sloths, allowing visitors a chance to witness the behavior of this otherwise largely sedentary animal.

Traverse a Hanging Bridge

Costa Rica’s rainforests impress even from ground level, but the higher vantages of Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park put hikers at the top of the canopy—right at bird and monkey level. The hanging bridges path is 2 miles, offering 16 hanging bridges that traverse rivers and lead to open areas with relatively unobstructed views of Arenal Volcano. 

We like that the bridges create dramatic setting for photos—and we really like the thrill of walking across a swinging, bouncing bridge that feels alive with every step, making for an undeniably exciting way to experience the rainforest.

River Cruise in Tortuguero

Costa Rica’s east coast—the Caribbean shore—may as well be called the Forgotten Coast, given that most Americans head west just after touching down. True, the eastern side isn’t as developed, but that’s part of the charm when staying at eco-resorts that offer daily boat tours upriver for easy viewing of scarlet macaws, howler monkeys, White-Faced Capuchin monkeys, tiger herons, crocodiles, and every other species that calls this jungle home. 

We like the Tortuga Lodge for its clean accommodation, onsite restaurant serving upscale Costa Rican food and daily riverboat wildlife viewing tours guided by a naturalist.

Stay at a Working Coffee Plantation

Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm and Inn somehow manages to be one of the country’s most prolific producers of organic coffee—and a luxury boutique resort with 14 one-of-a-kind suites and villas. The inn, like the coffee, is organic in its design, from copious amounts of curves, arches, and spirals in the architectural design of the inn to the murals adorning bedroom walls. 

We especially love the Guarumo suite for its oversize soaking tub that accommodates at least two people and affords views of the plantation and surrounding cloud forests. Staff number guests one-to-two, so there’s plenty of attention during a stay, from the guided tours of the coffee plantation to the elaborate and inventive four-course dinners.

Tour the Rainforest by Night

Like any environment, the rainforest sees a new cast of fauna come nightfall—and you will, too, if you join a night hike with Monteverde Wildlife Refuge. Groups of eight guests join a guide; all are given headlamps and walkie talkies to share findings, whether it’s sleeping birds such as toucans and quetzals or frogs, insects, and snakes. Monkeys are a common sight, as are olingos, a brown-button-eyed cousin of the common racoon. 

A welcome find is the kinkajou, a rainforest tree-dwelling mammal that looks like a Japanimation take on a tiny bear crossed with a rodent. Guides will also point out how to spot the eye shine of frogs and other amphibians.

Kayak into a Trippy Light Show 

This after-hours tour of Paquera Bay, part of the Nicoya Peninsula, is best booked on a night with or close to the new moon. The lack of light pollution allows for an even brighter display of bioluminescence, a tiny organism that glows electric blue or green when disturbed, such as when a kayak paddle pushes past. 

These guided tours take groups of no more than 10 guests to witness this natural phenomenon, which feels much more like the work of CGI than Mother Nature.

Whale Watch

Humpback whales ply the waters off Costa Rica more than six months out of the year—that’s because it draws these animals from both the northern and southern hemispheres. December to March, whales migrate here from Alaska. Late July though September, southern hemisphere whales make the journey up from Antarctica. 

As to which coastal cities and areas to target for a whale-watching tour, you have your pick: Tamarindo, Flamingo, Drake Bay, and the Gulf of Papagayo all see their share of cetacean action. However, the best place is the town of Uvita, home to the Marino Ballena National Park.

The post 10 Ways to Make Your Costa Rica Vacation Unforgettable appeared first on Islands.

If wellness is on the mind, especially as the New Year approaches, few resorts anywhere in the world offer an experience quite like Tabacón Thermal Resort in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Renowned for its legendary hot springs and thermal waterfalls, this property is set within more than 900 acres of magnificent rain forest, making it one of the best possible bases for adventure. But now, with the addition of 14 adults-only rooms and suites, this is now more than ever the perfect choice for a romantic escape.

Eight Honeymoon Suites and six Rainforest Rooms were designed by Costa Rican architect Adriana Cruz to not only set the mood, but also pay tribute to the lush surroundings and leave the smallest footprint. Guests will find comfort and calmness in locally sourced furniture and accents, including native stone and décor from a Costa Rican watercolor artist. Of course, the biggest focal point from the expanded terraces of the suites will be the Arenal Volcano, but there’s no such thing as a bad view here.

The additions that will have guests arguably the most excited are the four suites with private plunge pools. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with the other option—freestanding bathtubs on the marble terrace—but being able to slip into these warm pools, which are fed by the natural springs, will be almost as good as a dip in the thermal river itself. Just far more intimate.

Tabacón’s 18 pools combine to form the country’s largest network of naturally occurring hot springs, and guests have long visited for the thermal experience’s soothing effects. And if that’s not enough, The Spa at Tabacón incorporates the spring water and various local ingredients into personalized therapies and holistic treatments that will help guests forget why they needed a vacation in the first place.

The post Costa Rica’s Tabacón Thermal Resort Debuts a Quartet of Phenomenal Plunge Pool Suites appeared first on Islands.

More than 4 million people visit Peru’s Machu Picchu every year. But I’ve never wanted to be one of them.

Likely because I was put off years ago by a friend who came back with tales of an arduous days-long hike; bugs the size of her hand; and… let’s just call them “impromptu sanitary stops” in the middle of jungle. I’m someone who considers air-conditioning and indoor plumbing essential, so you couldn’t convince me that the payoff of seeing the most popular attraction in South America IRL could outweigh the inconvenience and effort involved.

Until I realized that it didn’t require any.

I found this out when I was invited to see the Inca-built citadel—a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, and named one of seven new world wonders in 2007—by the cruise line, Azamara. The opportunity is just one of more than a thousand pre- and post-cruise land tours, designed to immerse visitors in the history and culture of the destinations they call on, and to connect passengers more intimately with the people who live there. Much more than your typical shore excursion, the curated experiences are intimate (groups average between 12 and 18 people) and in-depth, led by experts in their field and lasting as long as six days.

Even though I’m younger than Azamara’s typical 60-something passenger, I appreciated how the program makes visiting Machu Picchu relatively effortless, allowing you to make the most of what is, for most of us, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Unlike my friend, who hiked the Inca trail for four days (a 26-mile slog at altitudes of up to 13,000 feet) before finally reaching the ancient city’s Sun Gate, I’d be arriving at the citadel the Azamara way–without even breaking a sweat.

While most visitors fly into Cusco (altitude: 11,000 feet) and go directly to Machu Picchu (roughly 8,000 feet above sea level) with little time to acclimatize to the thinner air, Azamara does things differently. From Cusco we drove 90 minutes straight to The Sacred Valley, where we were cosseted at Tambo Del Inka, a luxurious, lodge-like hotel that would be our base for a two-day exploration of the Andean region that comprises Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Fortified by cups of coca mate (a chamomile-like tea that’s a popular local remedy for altitude sickness) we “flatlanders” ticked off the Sacred Valley “must-sees,” including the mysterious agricultural ruins at Moray and Chinchero’s Center for Traditional Textiles. There we learned how local women dye and weave wool to make clothing, and squealed in delight during our first meet-and-greet with Peru’s iconic and impossibly cute alpacas.

But the main attraction was still to come.

Our Machu Picchu adventure began not on a well-worn hiking trail but at Ollantaytambo station, where we boarded the Belmond Hiram Bingham train which would take us to the Lost City of the Incas. Although there are several you can take, Belmond’s train is, hands-down, the fanciest way to get to Machu Picchu—and, at about $900 roundtrip per person for the 90-minute journey, also the priciest. All shiny brass, gleaming wood and sparkling crystal, the opulent 84-passenger Pullman looks and feels like the Orient Express circa the 1930s—minus the murders!

The price tag includes a three-course brunch (or dinner, on the return), open bar and live music in the lounge. Chugging through the countryside, the rapids of the undulating Urubamba followed alongside like a frothy Willy Wonka-esque river of chocolate milk. We chatted and snapped photos of the changing landscape as waiters expertly navigated the narrow aisles, offering Pisco Sours (Peru’s national drink) in festive clay cups. Take that, Inca Trail!

All too soon for the Pisco lovers on our tour (pro tip: altitude and alcohol don’t mix!) we arrived at Aguas Calientes, a village about a 20-minute drive from Machu Picchu’s entrance. Although the Hiram Bingham provides a shuttle bus from the station to the citadel and a guide for all 14 of its passengers, Azamara guests have a dedicated guide to interpret the historic site. And ours, Carlos Solaligue, was stellar, giving us essential background info as he weaved his way through the substantial but thankfully thinning lunchtime crowds. (Hiram Bingham guests arrive as most visitors, who started their day trips in the wee hours of the morning, are heading back to the train station—another Azamara advantage.)

But, to be honest, it took a minute before I could pay attention to anything Carlos had to say because I was so taken aback by the citadel’s imposing beauty. The only Inca city not destroyed by Spanish conquistadores in the 16th century, Machu Picchu (“old mountain”) was established 200 years earlier, and home to about 1,000 Inca until it was abandoned sometime in the 1530s. British explorer Hiram Bingham happened upon its overgrown ruins in 1911, and it’s safe to say that since then, the world has been rightfully fascinated by its mere existence.

Here in the cloudforest, which gets as much as much as 90 inches of rain every year, the air is dewy and fresh. Cottony clouds sail silently over the jagged mountain peaks that encircle the valley, which the mighty Urubamba (from this height a mere squiggle in the landscape) snakes through on its way from the Amazon.

Carlos explains that the compound is divided into two sections: Those iconic stepped terraces, where the Inca farmed herbs, medicinal plants and, surprisingly, flowers. And the lower urban area, with living quarters built from granite carved into stones with nothing but rudimentary hand tools. Looking at the centuries-old buildings, which would be at home in The Shire in The Lord of The Rings, I can’t even fathom the ingenuity, time and back-breaking work it must have taken to construct this city.

As we wander along steep stone steps and grassy paths, all you can hear is our breath, labored from the altitude, and our gasps of awe as one Instagram-worthy view gives way to another. On the upper terraces, even the most camera-shy in our group concede to pose for photos with mist-crowned mountains as a backdrop. On the lower areas, no one can resist snapping photos with the llamas that live here, strolling nonchalantly despite the presence of more than 2,500 daily visitors. And cameras come out once again when we stumble upon a marriage proposal amid the stony structures. (Spoiler: She said yes!)

I could stay here all day, just taking in the view, people-watching or perhaps hiking any of several mountain routes. But, to minimize wear and tear to the site, park rangers request that visitors limit their time to three hours. (Currently there’s no system in place to enforce that, but the lack of on-site bathrooms works pretty effectively.) As I diligently shoot photos and video, trying to capture Machu Picchu’s magic for friends not lucky enough to be here before we leave, Carlos appears at my shoulder. “Take photos with your camera, Sarah,” he says. “But don’t forget to take them also with your mind.”

Centuries after it was constructed, Machu Picchu remains an enigma. How exactly did the Inca build it? How long did it take? Why did they abandon the city, which was never discovered by the Spanish? And the biggest Machu Picchu mystery yet: Why did it take me so long to visit?

The post How Azamara Reinvented the Thrill of Visiting Machu Picchu appeared first on Islands.

South America is home to two of the world’s most interesting and iconic destinations: Peru and the Galapagos Islands. While both offer incredible adventures and vacation experiences, visiting them on the same journey requires considerable planning. Fortunately, INCA has created a luxury tour that allows travelers to experience the best of both destinations with a curated 17-day Peru + Galapagos Excursion.

The trip begins with 10 days exploring the most iconic sites of Peru, including two days in Lima, followed by a flight over the snow-capped Andes mountains to Pisac, the sacred valley of the Incas. Day 4 allows travelers to spend time at the indigenous market at Chinchero and watch a traditional weaving ceremony.  

Another scenic train ride lands guests at Machu Picchu for two days of exploring the marvels of these ancient ruins. A private guide offers educational talks on the history, legends, and lore of the Incan civilization along the way. Optional hikes and cultural activities can be customized for travelers who want to explore each destination a bit deeper.

After a brief stop in Cusco, travelers board the 141-ft. Integrity, a luxury yacht that transports 16 discerning guests through the Galapagos Islands to explore this natural wonder. Adventurers will stop along the way for excursions to San Cristobal, Genovesa, and other exciting destinations, while enjoying daily swimming and snorkeling trips to see tropical fish, seals, and other marine wildlife. There are daily naturalist-led shore excursions to learn about the local flora and fauna and enjoy intimate and unforgettable wildlife encounters. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure winds down with a day in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. The tour includes private vehicles and dedicated guides throughout your journey and can be customized to suit the interests of travelers.

The post This Might Be the Best Way to Experience Peru and the Galapagos Islands appeared first on Islands.

Looking to check a few more islands off your list? How about Malta, Gozo, and Comino? Malta is the best known of the three, while its sister islands are definitely under-the-radar—but they shouldn’t be. Because the Mediterranean can be enjoyed year-round, this trio of intriguing isles, part of the Maltese archipelago, has much to offer, whether you visit in November, April, or August or are interested in history, architecture, sailing, or food and wine.

They can easily be enjoyed over four or five days, with the main island of Malta as your base and easy day trips by boat to neighboring Gozo and Comino, but the capital Valletta is also a popular cruise port if you primarily want to experience the 121-square-mile main island’s cities and harbors.

Here are 10 great reasons to island hop in Malta.

The arid, honey-hued landscape

The name Malta is actually derived from the Greek word “melite” (honey) because as far as the eye can see this archipelago’s land mass is a warm honey-beige color—at least for nine months of the year. The islands—there are seven, but only Malta, Gozo, and Comino are inhabited—get more than 300 days of sunshine each year and daytime temperatures range from the low-to-mid 90s in July, August, and September to the low 60s in the Mediterranean’s quiet winter season. Rain during the winter months imbues the landscape with a vibrant green hue just in time for a spring visit.

But by July, the entire island is golden, interspersed with ubiquitous prickly pear cacti, large twisted and sculptural bushes with fruit that ripens to hues of tangerine, orange, and red. The Maltese put some of this natural bounty to use by enjoying the ripened fruit raw and making it into a potent liqueur known as bajtra. The dry, rocky landscape is also ideal for quad biking and rentals or tours are a popular way to explore both Malta and Gozo—just pack a hat and plenty of sunscreen.

The incredibly blue water

It’s not an exaggeration to say that the aquamarine and azure-hued bays in this region of the Mediterranean will have you at hello. There are swimming spots galore, from golden sand beaches on the north shore of Malta, such as Paradise Bay and Little Armier, to the secluded blue-green depths of Peter’s Pool near Marsaxlokk Bay.

But the reason many people visit Malta is a vibrant saltwater paradise known as the Blue Lagoon. Located in the channel between Comino (population: 2) and uninhabited Cominotto, this vivid yet soothing oasis is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely swim as you snap photos that will make your water-loving Instagram followers envious. Half-day and day tours are available from both Malta and Gozo and a dip here is especially refreshing in the heat of Maltese summer.

The views of Valletta Harbour

When visiting by cruise ship—Celebrity, Princess, Oceania, Azamara, Norwegian, Viking, and others offer itineraries that call on Valletta in 2022—prepare to be seduced as you arrive and depart. And while in port you’ll be surrounded by the unique architectural beauty of one of world’s largest natural harbors.

Valletta is built around it, with its historic heart just steps away and sweeping views of the water and golden limestone buildings of the old fortified city of Birgu and Fort Ricasoli available from the ramparts of the Barrakka Gardens. If enjoying a land visit, land and water continually converge as you explore the historic district.

Game of Thrones (and more) filming locations

Whether you’re a fan of the machinations in Game of Thrones or the fantastical muscles of Popeye (the ones sported by Robin Williams in the 1980 feature film), much of the action happened right here in Malta. The former was filmed in Mdina, Rabat, Fort Riscoli, and on the island of Gozo, while the latter shot scenes in seaside Sweethaven Village constructed just for the movie.

Also shot here: 2004′s Troy, starring Brad Pitt, and 2000′s Gladiator, starring Russell Crowe.

The elaborate churches and cathedrals

Malta is a devoutly Catholic island nation and everywhere you turn, there’s a church dome or steeple in view—one for almost every day of the year. Malta was ruled by the Knights of Malta (also known as the Order of St. John and the Knights Hospitalier) from 1530 to 1798 and the Catholic military order had a lasting influence on the island’s religious history.

A must-see in Valletta is the impressively gilded Baroque-style Co-Cathedral of St. John, built between 1572 and 1577 and home to works by Caravaggio. Another church on Malta that’s worth a peek is the Sanctuary Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, commonly known as the Rotunda of Mosta. It’s a striking structure with a massive dome and columned portico where on April 9, 1942, a German bomb fell during mass and landed inside—but didn’t explode. And on Gozo, the Ta’ Pinu Basilica in Gharb is an architectural beauty built in the early 20th century as a national shrine dedicated to the Blessed Virgin.

The fresh local bread, cheese, honey, and olive oil

Enjoying a Mediterranean diet when in the Med is the way to go, and on Malta the arid climate means locally grown delicacies include tomatoes and olives, which complement locally harvested honey and fresh jams, locally made cheese, and crusty Maltese sourdough bread (the traditional version is known as ftira) and an abundance of fresh seafood.

Menus around the islands also include traditional pastizzi, a flaky filo-style pastry filled with either sweet ricotta or mashed peas.

The Megalithic Temples

Malta is home to something quite rare: seven unique megalithic temples (Ġgantija, Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, Skorba, Ta’ Ħaġrat, and Tarxien) some of which date back 5,600 years and are among the oldest free-standing structures on Earth (yes, older than the Great Pyramids and Stonehenge). Together, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and most are located on Malta and can be visited individually by car or bus or on half-day prehistoric Malta tours.

On Gozo, the temple at Ggantija (the oldest with some giant stones weighing more than 50 tons) has a small museum containing excellent examples of pottery, statues, and jewelry and can be enjoyed during a day tour from Malta or overnight stay on Gozo.

The towering limestone cliffs

The geology of Malta, Gozo, and Comino offers plenty of nature-made drama, too. All three islands are known for their millions-of-years-old limestone cliffs, especially the photogenic cliffs at Xlendi Bay on Malta and those located along the southern side of Gozo. The latter tower almost 400 feet above the sea and are best enjoyed on a morning or afternoon sailing trip (most of these excursions also stop for swim time at the Blue Lagoon).

For a bit more adventure, visitors can also experience the cliffs on a hiking, rock-climbing, or abseiling excursion on Malta, Gozo, or Comino.

The ancient capital of Mdina

If the bustle of Valletta gets to be too much, escape for a few hours to the island’s original capital, the walled hilltop city of Mdina, located about 20 minutes away. Here, you’ll wander narrow medieval lanes and enjoy 18th-century Baroque architecture (you’ll enter through the splendid circa-1724 Vilhena Gate) in this now sparsely populated ancient city. Brightly painted blue, red, and green doors pop against champagne-hued limestone walls and the ornate St. Paul’s Cathedral is the city’s heart.

The unique cultural mix

Given its strategic location, Malta has for thousands of years been coveted by conquering invaders and colonists, first the Greeks and Phoenicians, then the Romans and the Knights of St. John, and later Napoleon and the British Empire. Both English and Maltese (which developed from a dialect of Arabic and is the only form of Arabic to be written in the Latin alphabet) are official languages and this island nation that declared its independence from Great Britain in 1964 is truly a one-of-a-kind mix of European, Arabic, and British influences—with something to capture every visitor’s imagination.

Where to Stay: Malta offers a wide range of accommodations. For an upscale stay in Valletta, consider the five-star boutique property Rosselli—AX Privilege or the landmark The Phoenicia Malta. Travelers will also find familiar brands offering waterfront options in the popular St. Julians resort area: the Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa, the Westin Dragonara Resort, and the Hyatt Regency Malta.

The post 10 Great Reasons to Island Hop in Malta appeared first on Islands.

I’ll admit it: until recently, my associations to the Galapagos Islands were mainly limited to tortoises, penguins, and cute TV vet Ted Mullens. (That would be Alexis’ pun-loving, on-again, off-again boyfriend, for fans of Schitt’s Creek.) I’m not going to say that the island chain 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador wasn’t a must-see destination for me; it just seemed that it was one of those elusive locales that’s difficult to reach and tricky to logistically navigate once you are there.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, this incredible spot arguably (and rightfully) remains perched atop many people’s bucket lists like the treetop nests of the region’s Red-footed Boobies. But what’s the best strategy to tackle this far-flung archipelago that intrigued Charles Darwin with its unique species and wildly varying landscapes?

This past summer I embarked on a 7-day Galapagos tour with Intrepid Travel that started in Quito before we flew to Baltra, boarded a 16-passenger yacht, and sailed around the southern islands for five days to hike, spot wildlife, birdwatch, snorkel, and swim. Exploring the Galapagos via the sea really affords the best chance to see as much as possible. 

Here are some things I learned that will make for smooth sailing during your own Galapadventure: 

Book an itinerary that meets your needs

There are some islands you can visit without being part of an organized tour: Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana. However, others require you to travel via an operator and a guide. This makes it decidedly easier to navigate, since all details will be taken care of, leaving you to charge your camera and lace up your hiking shoes. Intrepid Travel offers cruises from six to 24 days to the southern, eastern, central, and western islands; some are designated for families, and others tack on time in Peru. Think about what you really want to see, how active you are, and the budget and time away you can afford. The islands of the Galapagos straddle the equator, and the warmest months will be January through April.

The itinerary I took is best suited for travelers who are relatively fit, as hikes often involve climbing, long walks may be on precarious rocks rather than on smooth sandy paths, and you’ll be snorkeling and getting in and out of Zodiacs on the boat and from the beach—including wet landings. While you don’t need to be a triathlete to get the most out of the trip, it helps if you are relatively agile. You do have the option to hang back on the boat for any activities, but the coolest stuff to see is in the water and on land. (Though I did manage to sneak in an energy-boosting nap after lunch most days in between activities.)

Pack the right gear

Intrepid has a super helpful guide with all the information you need for this trip, including a master packing list. The Galapagos maintains a well-protected ecosystem, so the boat stocks environmentally friendly toiletries. If you bring your own (including sunscreen and bug spray) make sure they are organic and reef safe, and pack over-the-counter medications as there will be limited opportunities to purchase them. Plastic bags are banned, so take any back home with you. Bring American cash for on-board gratuities, the cash bar, park entry fee, and spending money in San Cristobal. After a financial crisis in 2000, Ecuador switched its currency to the U.S. dollar, making it very convenient for Americans.

Other items I considered must-haves are a lightweight backpack, multiple swimsuits for the many snorkeling opportunities, layered clothing, long pants to keep the bugs at bay while hiking, raincoat or poncho, sunglasses, brimmed safari-style hat with a cord for windy Zodiac rides, and a refillable water bottle. Obviously, you’ll want to be taking photos; our group’s equipment ran the gamut from cell phones to digital SLRs with super telephotos lenses. A few passengers also packed wildlife guidebooks, a copy of “Origin of the Species” and Kurt Vonnegut’s novel, “Galapagos.” 

The experience will be much more meaningful if you have some context—and sure, that includes watching the Schitt’s Creek episodes where Ted is off studying those tortoises. (The name of the islands, by the way, is the old Spanish word for saddle, a term early explorers used for the enormous, slow reptiles.) 

Get there and prepare

Americans headed to the Galapagos may fly first to Quito, serviced by airlines including United, Copa, American, Delta, and JetBlue; others may fly directly to Guyaquil. If you do travel through Quito, which at 9,350 feet is the second-highest world capital after La Paz, Bolivia, you may notice altitude-related effects including headache, nausea, and lightheadedness; over-the-counter medicines, water, and rest generally do the trick. The first evening we had a mandatory meeting in our hotel lobby, where we learned more about the inclusions of the trip and our travel schedule the next day, and asked questions. 

The following day was pretty grueling, travel-wise, clocking in at 10 hours door-to-door. We left at 5 am for Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport, where we bought a mandatory transit card ($20) and boarded our Avianca flight. After an hour stopover in Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest port, we continued to Baltra Island, a former U.S. World War II army base and current Ecuadorian military that along with San Cristobel is now one of two airports to serve the Galapagos. 

After paying our mandatory entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park in cash, which is $100 for non-Ecuadorian adults and $50 for non-Ecuadorian children, we watched the sniffer-dogs inspect our luggage for smuggled wildlife species and animal parts. (This is a good time to use the restroom, grab a bottle of Endemica beer, and read the signage—Baltra is the world’s first 100 percent green airport, which is very cool.)

After a bus ride to the port, we took a ferry across the channel to Santa Cruz, followed by a private transfer to the port where the Grand Lady Beatriz was docked. Our final transportation was a choppy Zodiac ride to our boat.

Ready yourself for life on the boat

Intrepid Travel categorizes its tours into different tiers according to the price and number of amenities. This trip was in the “Comfort” class, billed as having “more inclusions, more comfortable accommodation, and a more relaxed pace.” Grand Queen Beatriz has eight two-person spacious cabins, some with balconies and others with windows, all with private bathrooms. 

The vessel was built in 2018 and is technically considered a “yacht,” though I would use that term loosely. It was well-appointed enough, with a communal dining area and bar on the main level, sitting room on the upper deck with snacks and drinks, and lounge chairs and a hot tub on the sun deck–perfect for relaxing after a long hike. Several inflatable dinghies are tethered for the many wet landings required during the trip, and wetsuits and snorkel gear are provided. There is something to be said for being able to snorkel, jump back on the boat, and enjoy lunch while the boat navigates to the next reef. Very cool. 

Remember that you didn’t come to the Galapagos for a luxury cruise but for the landscapes and air, land, and sea creatures, so manage your expectations and be ready for a few quirks. Itineraries are subject to change due to factors including weather and the presences of other tour groups, and you might not spot every species you came to see. I was a little disappointed to learn that we wouldn’t have the opportunity to see any penguins, as they are located on the northern islands, but the amount of other birds, lizards, and sea lions I encountered along the way more than made up for it. 

You will be off the grid for long stretches of time; we only had internet access when we were docked at the larger islands. The food is tasty and well-prepared, if not gourmet, and meals are usually served buffet style. If you are there in the cooler months, you will need to wear a wetsuit to snorkel. 

Oh, and you can’t flush toilet paper on the boat or on the islands, so dispose of it properly. Even if you aren’t prone to seasickness, you might want to bring medicine and Sea-bands. The waters are purported to be the choppiest between June and August, though aside from our first day, I didn’t find that to be noticeably so.

Enjoy your surroundings—responsibly

Since the only indigenous land mammal in the Galapagos is a species of rat that happens to be a vegetarian, the other native creatures don’t view mammals (including humans) as a threat. Our guide instructed us to remain at least six feet away from them at all times, but don’t be surprised if a water-seeking mockingbird lands on your shoulder while you are taking a swig out of your Yeti, or cotton-tufted blue-footed booby babies and their mamas nesting on the ground don’t move an inch as you casually walk past them. 

We also had a front-row seat to watch albatrosses engage in their elaborate mating ritual—a funky dance that’s kind of like a sword fight with their beaks—and got up close and personal with playful sea lions who teased us as we snorkeled, sometimes coming right up to our masks.  But while the urge to pet one of the many baby sea lions sunning on the beach is strong (we also joked about putting them in our backpacks and taking them home), it’s important not to pet or touch any of the wildlife, as sea lions can actually be aggressive when approached, and mothers of many species will shun their young if they pick up a human scent. That also goes for feeding them; the only exception is hand feeding a fly to one of those mockingbirds—and they will come right up and take it from you. It’s pretty amazing.

Be wowed

It’s truly impossible to convey just how special and unique these islands are without experiencing them firsthand. Our guide, Roberto Quintana, briefed us every evening on where we’d be going and what we’d be seeing the following day. He accompanied us on every excursion and was on hand to provide expert commentary about the history, topography, geology, zoology, and more. 

What was surprising and unexpected to me was how different the islands were from one another. Santa Fe, where we visited a tortoise sanctuary on the first day, is lush and green. South Plaza, home to many lizards—including one indigenous to that island—is craggy and dotted with succulents and ground brush. On Espanola, we hiked for three hours solely on rocks by the water. San Cristobal is barren and steep, requiring intense climbing. One afternoon, our boat circumnavigated Leon Dormido, the remnants of a volcano that impressively juts out of the water and reminded me of rock formations in Thailand; another day we relaxed for a few hours in Gardiner Bay, named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. 

And this doesn’t even account for the stunning underwater topography. If you love snorkeling, you’ll be right in your element. We had five or six opportunities to don masks and fins (along with shorty wetsuits for the brisk water) and explore the creatures of the deep blue sea, including parrot fish, angel fish, clown fish, Hawksbill turtles, and surgeonfish. One day thousands of gray striped salema fish lingered near the sea floor. The school was so dense that from the surface it looked like gray rocks; I turned my head for a second when I spotted something else, and when I looked back they were gone. And the starfish? Many have 25 legs. 

While the blue-footed boobies and Darwin’s finches are probably the islands’ most iconic species, I discovered a few I had never even heard of. The swallow tail gull has a forked tail and a distinctive red ring around its eyes. Sally Lightfoot crabs dot the black rocks along the water by the hundreds, their bright red bodies resembling blue crabs after they’ve been steamed. (These also appear in other parts of the Americas and are rumored to have been named after an agile Caribbean dancer.) And the Galapagos’ marine iguanas are unique among modern lizards, basking in the sun and then swimming (!) to forage for the algae in their diet. They can also make themselves smaller—not just skinnier, but actually their entire body smaller in stature. Incredible.

But back to those sea lions, which are everywhere. As soon as we arrived via ferry to Santa Cruz, we saw one napping basically inside an open-air restaurant. Every dinghy ride to the beach meant a whole herd of them sunning, playing, resting, and swimming. And they absolutely pose and preen when they see a human come along with a camera or phone. Did you know that they stay with their mothers for two to five years? Or that babies play and explore awkwardly like toddlers, flapping and frolicking in the shallow waters while mom is off looking for food? Or that the dominant adult male of a herd will relinquish the throne after a time, so to speak, to let a younger, stronger male have his moment? At every turn, Roberto shared fascinating facts on all the islands’ flora and fauna.

One more thing: these are some of the rarest and most exotic species on the planet, so you’ll want to capture them for posterity. But put down the camera from time to time and just observe. You’ll be glad you did.

Make new friends

Intrepid Travel is known to attract affable, adventurous, well-traveled types from all walks of life. Our diverse group included couples, solo travelers, and families with teenagers from around the world. Since daily activities are interspersed with meals and down time, there is ample opportunity to get to know your Galapa-gang. 

We compared countries visited over breakfast, shared bucket list destinations over lunch on the sundeck, and played raucous games of name that tune with our Spotify lists (and lots of wine) in the sitting room after dinner. I found this trip to be a great way to commune with like-minded peeps—and it took a trip to the middle of the Pacific Ocean to find a cool new friend who literally lives just a few miles from me. Such a small world. 

Spend some time in Quito

On the day my tour started, I arrived early in the afternoon, took a nap, attended the Intrepid meeting, and then ventured out with a few people in my group to enjoy the tasting menu at Somos, helmed by chef Alejandra Espinoza. Dishes like larvae, ceviche, pork belly, grilled prawns, and paiche wrapped in banana leaves appeared on our table, and we paired them with pours of global wines. Book in advance, though, as this restaurant is very popular.

This tour also ends in Quito back at the Le Parc Hotel, so after freshening up our now tightlyknit group all went out to dinner at Miskay. The next morning before heading to the airport, I took an Uber to Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, or Middle of the World City, where a statue and yellow line marks the equator. I Googled it on the way and discovered that modern GPS measurements have shown that the actual location of the equator is around 700 feet away. No matter. Standing there in my new blue alpaca shawl holding a bottle of Latitud Cero beer made for a great photo opp. There is also a museum about Ecuador’s indigenous people over the millennia, and vendors selling local souvenirs.

Don’t think—just go

The Galapagos was one of the first places during the pandemic to reopen to travelers, and it is ready to welcome you. If this itinerary sounds perfect to you but you are still on the fence, I recommend taking a cue from one of the native creatures. We learned that Blue-footed Booby chicks take a trust fall off the cliff to test their flying skills and leave the nest. Don’t overthink it—it’s the experience of a lifetime.

Intrepid Travel’s Galapagos Explorer Grand Queen Beatriz starts at $4,550 per person in a standard queen room, inclusive of accommodations, most meals, roundtrip airfare from Quito, all inter-island transfers (bus, Zodiac, boat), and included activities. Not included is roundtrip airfare to Quito, lunch and dinner on the first and last evening, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, Galapagos National Park entrance, transit card, and incidentals.

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