"So often, when you travel, you find yourself disappointed.

The scenery, the wildlife, even the people don't come up to your expectations.

This is simply not true with the Galápagos."

Stanley Johnson, Travel Writer

Galapagos Holidays and Galapagos Cruises

Introduction

Charles Darwin first brought these extraordinary islands to the world's attention in 1835. The impressions he gained and experiences he enjoyed whilst exploring the islands, can today be shared by the fortunate visitor.

A Galapagos Island holiday offers one of the most unique, magical and unforgettable holiday experiences in South America. On your Galapagos cruise you can swim with seals, snorkel with penguins, wander with tortoises and enjoy the dance of the red-footed booby.

Located some 1,000 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Islands are a living laboratory of evolution where birds and animals have no fear of man. Blue-footed boobies, flightless cormorants, land and marine iguanas and giant tortoises roam freely as they did thousands of years ago. Anyone interested in natural history, wildlife and ecology will find a Galapagos Islands tour a truly memorable experience.

To read more about the individual islands, please click About The Islands.



Client Viewpoint

"We loved the Galapagos - the best holiday we've ever had. The service we received from Steppes Travel was fantastic - they certainly know what they're talking about."

Mrs R, London.


Wildlife

The fact that the islands have never been connected with the mainland means that they are home to innumerable endemic species of wildlife and plants, many of which are even unique to just one island due to the differences in landscape and climate within the archipelago.

One of the foremost attractions of the islands for visitors is the fearlessness of the animals, due to their relative lack of exposure to man and other predators, enabling humans to enjoy probably their closest ever encounter with nature.



The Galapagos Islands are also the perfect location for diving, giving you an unparalled view of some truely amazing sealife from whale sharks, to turtles, seals, dolphins and many hundreds of different species of fish.


Click to see a short video of diving in the Galapagos.


Galapagos Cruises

The magical Galapagos Islands can be enjoyed via day trips from the main island of Santa Cruz, but undoubtedly the best way to experience and fully appreciate the unique wildlife and landscape is by a Galapagos cruise. You can join a group of like-minded travellers or charter a boat for a whole party of family or friends for a unique Galapagos holiday.

Please click here for a selection of yachts and motor cruisers that sail the prolific waters of the Galapagos Islands.

Our Galapagos Island tours all offer comfortable cabins with private facilities, air-conditioning throughout, excellent cuisine and expert naturalist guides.



Our Expertise

Our staff have travelled extensively in The Galapagos Islands, so you can rely on their up-to-date, first-hand knowledge and enthusiasm.

James has recently returned from a familly holiday in The Galapagos, taking his 3 teenage sons to the islands, proving this is an ideal destination for all ages. If you would like to know more, call James on 01285 885 333 or email james@steppestravel.co.uk.

Lucy has recently visited Ecuador and Galapagos. Read about her experience in On Location or email lucy@steppestravel.co.uk.


When To Go

The Galapagos Islands are a year round destination. However, there are differences between the two seasons that shape the Galapagos. For more information, click When To Go.


Price Guide

All of our holidays are tailor made to fit exactly with our clients' requirements. However, as a general guide, prices start from about £3,100 per person for a seven-night cruise on a tourist class vessel, including all flights and accommodation on the mainland.

Please speak with one of our consultants on 01285 885 333 to discuss the various options available.

Journey Ideas

Ecuador and The Galapagos Islands 18 Days

A classic introduction to the Galapagos Islands on an 18 day holiday. The trip also includes the Amazon Rainforest, and the main sites of Ecuador.

Peru, Ecuador and The Galapagos Islands - 18 Days

Journey to Peru, taking in Lima, Cuzco and the amazing Machu Picchu. This is followed by a comprehensive cruise around The Galapagos Islands.


The Galapagos Booklet

A quick reference guide for the Galapagos Islands including information about when to go, the vessels we offer and alternative accommodation options for those who would prefer to remain land based during their visit.

Would You Like to Know More?