When it comes to traveling to the Galápagos Islands, Lindblad Expeditions offers an unparalleled experience that blends luxury, sustainability, and adventure. If you’re looking for a deeper, more meaningful way to explore this unique ecosystem, Lindblad’s small ships, exceptional guides, and commitment to conservation make it the ideal choice for discerning travelers who want to visit the Galápagos.
Because of their reputation, I wanted to visit the Galápagos with Lindblad Expeditions, always eager to take one for the team and do the ‘hard’ work. Lindblad partners with National Geographic, ensuring that their itineraries are crafted with an emphasis on education, discovery, and preservation. This is why I took my 5th grader out of school to join me. We sailed on the National Geographic Islander ll, which sails year-round in the Galápagos. Our itinerary included 7-days, 6 nights with Lindblad; 4 of those nights aboard the National Geographic Islander II in the Galápagos.
Even after research and hearing about how incredible the Galápagos Islands were, I was still blown away by the diversity and beauty of the landscape and endemic species found no where else on Earth.
Highlights of Lindblad’s Expedition Cruise to the Galápagos
- The wildlife of Galápagos is legendary and lived up to the hype
- Snorkeling daily among playful sea lions, schools of tropical fish and even white-tipped reef sharks
- The naturalists aboard the National Geographic Islander II were engaging storytellers and knew the Galápagos inside and out (as they call it home)
- There is a ‘No Key Policy’ aboard. Loved how incredibly safe we felt, feeling like the crew and other guests were long lost friends
- Multiple ways to explore the Galápagos archipelago: zodiac rides, glass – bottom boats, hikes, paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkeling
- The ship – Lindblad’s National Geographic Islander II, is an intimate all-suite 48-passenger vessel. It has an open Bridge, Spa, Fitness Center, Science Hub, Library, Rooftop Bar + Plunge Pool
Why We Loved Visiting the Galápagos with Lindblad Expeditions
Where to start!
One of the first highlights was exploring South Plaza Island, home to playful sea lion colonies and endemic land iguanas. The island features a fascinating array of flora – notably the prickly pear-shaped trees, and one of the most striking plants was sevsuvium – a low-growing succulent that turns red during the dry season, covering much of the island.
The second day we had the chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear water surrounding Sombrero Chino. Water temperatures hovered around 75°F during our trip, and we wore the short-sleeved wetsuits provided by Lindblad. Check water temperatures when traveling, if they dip much lower you may want to bring your own long-sleeved wetsuit.
The landscapes of Santiago Island, where we visited next, were a true testament to the volcanic origins of the Galápagos. We took a two-mile hike across the island, at times feeling like we could be on Mars.
The third day, we enjoyed a champagne (+sparkling cider) toast as we sailed across the Equator on our way to Genovesa Island, aka ‘Bird Island.’ Not a bird – lover, but the Naturalists insight into breeding patterns and evolution of wildlife over millennia (which led to Darwin’s theory of natural selection) made our visit much more interesting. Best of all, helped prove my case that the education onboard was worth 4 days of missed school:)
Good to Know
Lindblad Expeditions Cruise to the Galápagos is perfect for families, couples and multi-generational groups, with many activities (and alternate options) offered daily.
Peter was 10 when we traveled to the Galápagos and fully engaged (minus one hike on ‘Bird Island’). His interest was, without question, attributed to the National Geographic Experts on board and the National Geographic Explorers Program. This program engages kids on many Lindblad Expedition Cruises. In the Galápagos they offer hands-on-activities to learn about the unique wildlife and ecosystem of the Galápagos. Included in the Explorers program in the Galápagos is a private zodiac driving lesson, which Peter thoroughly enjoyed. We spotted our first penguin and blue-footed booby while he was in the driver’s seat!
Five Reasons to Visit The Galápagos with Lindblad Expeditions
- The Naturalists. Hands down. They are true Galapagos ambassadors. One of our naturalists was descendant of the earliest settlers (who gave Peter his zodiac driving lesson)
- Seeing the Galápagos giant tortoises up close
- Following in the footsteps of Darwin, inspired by the very sites that shaped his theories
- Blue-footed boobies, penguins, marine and land iguanas, Darwin’s finches, pink flamingos, sally lightfoot crabs + more
- Birdwatching – promise that you’ll be a convert too!
Our encounters aboard the National Geographic Islander II snorkeling with animals who were unafraid of humans was beyond anything we could have imagined. Beyond grateful to the Naturalists and Lindblad Expeditions for memories we will treasure.
Your Next Getaway: Visiting the Galápagos with Lindblad Expeditions
Location: Galápagos (Ecuador)
How to get there? Fly to Ecuador and connect to the Galápagos through Quito or Guayaquil. Lindblad recommends (and includes in the pricing) a pre + post night in either city.
