VOLCANO HIKES
The Galapagos Islands are sheltered by their national park status. In addition to that, not each part of the islands can be explored by tourists.
That said, you can take an exceptional lava rock trek where you will see sea lions, walk on top of the Sierra Negra (it is the 2nd largest volcano caldera in the world), see marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and get a chance to hike across the island’s beaches and along mangrove creeks to
ensure you get a real impression of the vastly assorted landscape of Galapagos Islands.
The best way to see all the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands closely is to hike through the beautiful and surreal volcanic landscapes of the islands.
SNORKELING
Being the highlight for most, if not all tourists on the Galapagos Islands, Snorkeling is a great chance to get personal and up close with the wildlife of the oceans. Unlike Scuba Diving, you do not have to train how to snorkel.
However, because of the nature of the Pacific Ocean coupled with the currents surrounding the islands as well as the conservation worries regarding the reef, you must be briefed thoroughly by one of the guards before you partake in the activity.
You will be urged to ensure you snorkel with a friend or a group of friends who you will bring with you underwater so you can take shots of each other playing with the green sea turtles, the world’s tiniest penguins, and some of the beautiful reef fish.
As we noted in the preceding section, most of the creatures on the island’s seas will have little, to no fear of humans because they evolved in a very isolated environment. However, when you come across a sea lion bull, do not touch it even if it touches you.
SCUBA DIVING
To really explore and go deep into the concealed realm of the Galapagos Island, suit up and dive down for a scuba adventure. If you wish, you can partake in a short scuba diving course (PADI) on the islands prior to your diving date. Note that without previous training or experience, you will not be able to enjoy some of the most advanced dives available on the islands.
I advise you to take a scuba diving course before you visit the island to avoid inconveniences and make the most of this exclusive location. Lots of seasoned divers have seen Galapagos sharks, hammerheads, golden rays, penguins, marine iguanas, white tip sharks, and even whale sharks during their dives.
SEA KAYAKING
Just like snorkeling and unlike scuba diving, you will not need to have any training or prior experience in order to enjoy kayaking in Galapagos. Paddle alongside the rugged shorelines of the islands and explore the stunning beaches, mangrove estuaries, and secret coves.
You should easily see lots of creatures swimming past you as you make your way through the sea, including sea lions and penguins. Also, note that you must get the correct permission in order to sea kayak on the Islands, so ensure you check with the Galapagos National Park to ensure you follow the guidelines.
Pictures courtesy of Voyagers Travel