Galapagos 101: Everything You Need To Plan the Perfect Trip

Planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands can be a daunting task. With so many options to choose from, it is easy to get lost in the details and confusing logistics. The following is an introductory guide containing the most important details to know in order to plan and prepare for the perfect Galapagos getaway. Read more…

IGTOA: Tourism to Support Galapagos Conservation

Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands are a magical destination to explore. The landscapes—from lava flows to lagoons—and the wildlife—be it giant tortoises or blue footed boobies—are unforgettable and unlike anywhere else in the world. The archipelago is home to unique species of both flora and fauna and, as such, has also become a place where critical scientific Read more…

Leaving a Piece of My Heart in the Ecuadorian Highlands

My colleague Joleen Soderberg and I were lucky enough to travel to Ecuador this past May. Even though most of our time was spent exploring the Galapagos Island (seven nights and an amazing experience), we were able to enjoy two magical days at Hacienda Zuleta, located in the breathtaking Ecuadorian highlands. To say that I Read more…

The Poor Packer’s Guide to the Galapagos

I am not a great packer. While the process might be effortless for some, it does not come naturally to me. I write (and then rewrite) my lists. I check (and then recheck) my piles. I organize (and then reorganize) my suitcase. And when I finally get to where I am going, I realize that Read more…

Galapagos Expansion: More Marine Reserve to Explore

Earlier this month, Ecuador’s president Guillermo Lasso made a historic announcement. It had been decided during the recent World Climate Conference (COP 26), that the Galapagos Reserve, already one of the most diverse and abundant ecosystems on the planet, would be expanding. Increasing its size by 45%, and now totaling 47.7 million acres, the Reserve Read more…

Montemar: Eco-luxury in the Land of the Galapagos Tortoises

Situated in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, in the heart of giant tortoise territory, Montemar Villas is a home away from home in the Galapagos. Envisioned and hosted by two Ecuadorian conservationists (one a naturalist guide and the other an ecologist), a stay here is truly an immersion into the life of this remote Read more…

Bob Returns to the Galapagos Islands!

I had a great trip to the Galapagos with Lindblad Expeditions on the Endeavour II.  I was last in the Galapagos November of 1998 on Lindblad’s Polaris, and I am happy to say the islands are in great shape.  I was beyond pleased to see that not much has changed with the exception of continued Read more…

What it’s Like to Travel Now

Traveling at this moment in time is unlike anything one might have experienced previously. Restrictions and requirements demand additional logistics. New questions arise, many of which hinge on health and safety. Those with an intrepid spirit might feel eager to fly off to a new destination as soon as possible. Others may prefer to wait. Read more…

Galapagos Islands: A Marine Safari

What better place to experience marine life than the Galapagos Islands? I’ve seen amazing land animals while on an African safari, so I could not wait to explore what lived below the surface of these islands’ waters. I have only snorkeled once prior, so I was a little nervous about doing so two to three Read more…

Ecuador: Land of Diverse Beauty

The old adage ‘great things come in small packages’ has never been more appropriate than when describing the South American country of Ecuador. Compared to its closest neighbors, Ecuador is modest in size, but a peek inside this gem will show you it proudly boasts some of the world’s most incredible natural beauty and a Read more…